SILENCE descended on the streets when a former pit community turned out in force to mourn the death of ex-local football star Gary Walton.

Father-of-two Mr Walton's body was discovered in the garden of the Miner's Arms pub, Coundon, County Durham, in the early hours of July 17.

Yesterday, the usual midday bustle came to a standstill as children, parents and grandparents silently lined the streets, awaiting the funeral procession to St James's Church.

Father Gary Nicholson, who led the memorial service, said: "There's nobody in this village that hasn't been touched by this tragedy, we're a small pit community. We were united in grief, it has brought everybody together.

"But in the service we also tried to turn this tragedy into a celebration of his life.

"He wasn't a morbid person, he was a very happy person. Everybody loved him. He was a very humorous and witty and we wanted to express that.

"But his death has rocked this village. I hope in my whole ministry I never have to do something like this ever again."

During the service some of Gary's favourite Elvis songs were played and his friend, former Newcastle footballer Alan Shoulder paid tribute.

Mr Walton, who died of head injuries, had lived near the Miner's Arms, on Collingwood Street. He leaves two daughters Kara, eight, and Laura, 11.

He had been a promising footballer as a teenager, appearing as a star striker for Newcastle United reserves, as well as several local teams.

l The Northern Echo attended the funeral with the permission of Mr Walton's family.