In pics – Hundreds turn out at funeral of ex West Bromwich Albion legend Cyrille Regis

Former England striker returned to The Hawthorns for the last time. The West Bromwich Albion legend’s coffin was brought through the streets by the ground where he was worshipped.

Fans, former players, friends, colleagues and hundreds of supporters applauded respectfully as this footballing trailblazer’s cortege made its way through and then on to the private funeral service.

The French Guiana-born striker made his debut at West Bromwich Albion in 1977. At a time when successful black British footballers were a rarity, he became a cult hero at the club. Along with Brendan Batson and Laurie Cunningham, he was part of the first British side to field three black players in the same team. They were affectionately known as the ‘Three Degrees’, in tribute to the soul band.

He died from a heart attack earlier this month, at the age of 59.

See picture gallery (below)

Former England striker returned to The Hawthorns for the last time. The West Bromwich Albion legend’s coffin was brought through the streets by the ground where he was worshipped.

Fans, former players, friends, colleagues and hundreds of supporters applauded respectfully as this footballing trailblazer’s cortege made its way through and then on to the private funeral service.

The French Guiana-born striker made his debut at West Bromwich Albion in 1977. At a time when successful black British footballers were a rarity, he became a cult hero at the club. Along with Brendan Batson and Laurie Cunningham, he was part of the first British side to field three black players in the same team. They were affectionately known as the ‘Three Degrees’, in tribute to the soul band.

He died from a heart attack earlier this month, at the age of 59.

See picture gallery (below)