THE funeral of Middlesbrough legend Willie Maddren will take place at St Cuthbert's Church in Billingham on Monday.

Members of the public are asked to note that the Maddren family have requested that the service is restricted to family and close friends only.

The family has also further requested family flowers only. However, donations can be made either to the Willie Maddren MND Fund for research into Motor Neurone Disease or to the Butterwick Hospice, where Willie received care during his illness.

Donations can be sent to Middlesbrough Football Club.

To enable members of the public to pay their last respects, an area will be set aside in the stadium store, where a book of remembrance will be available from 9.30am, on Tuesday morning, for individuals to leave their own personal messages.

Dave Allan, the football club's communications manager, said: "The Maddren family are aware of the great affection the people of Teesside had for Willie. However, I am sure the fans will understand the family's need for some privacy at this difficult time.

"As the service will be for family and friends only, it is hoped supporters and the general public will instead take the opportunity to pay their respects via the book of remembrance."