MANI OF THE PEOPLE

MUSIC greats including Liam Gallagher and Paul Weller joined together to say goodbye to Gary "Mani" Mounfield in his beloved Manchester yesterday.

- BY MARK JEFFERIES Showbiz Editor

David Beckham and Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham also joined the former Stone Roses and Primal Scream bass player's family and friends at his funeral in the city.

Roses singer Ian Brown described his former bandmate and close pal as "a beautiful soul and spirit" in a heartfelt tribute speech. Mani's coffin, decorated in Stone Roses guitarist John Squire's artwork from their eponymous debut album, was carried into Manchester Cathedral by family members, with his twin sons Gene and George following behind. As they arrived, Roses track I Wanna Be Adored was playing.

Bandmates Squire and Alan "Reni" Wren, Primal Scream's Andrew Innes and Oasis singer Liam were among those who carried the coffin out. Becks and Liam both appeared to touch it when it was placed in the hearse.