GEOFF Pimblett’s recent illness and subsequent demise was, of course, a great shock to us all.

It was no surprise that there have been innumerable tributes from far and wide and messages of support for wife, Merle and family at this sad time.

On a fine, clear day last Tuesday, his funeral, at St. Helens Crematorium saw standing room only as family, friends, past sporting team-mates and former teaching colleagues paid their respects.

It was a true measure of the stature of the man himself and the occasion, although very sad, had a warm, supportive atmosphere, with a true community feel.

Emphasis was very much on a service of thanksgiving for a marvellous life, officiated by Saints’ Club Chaplain Paul Johnson.

A poem ‘Miss Me, But Let Me Go’ was read by Gordon Pennington, who had close links with Geoff at Saints and Ray French MBE produced a superb and fitting eulogy as only he could.

Some great rugby league players from a variety of clubs were in attendance, including many who had shared triumph and disappointment on the Wembley stage, like Kel Coslett, George Nicholls, Harry Pinner, Billy Benyon and Ken Kelly, which made the final hymn Abide With Me particularly poignant.

It should also be noted that there was a strong contingent of Welsh players, including Mike Nicholas, Jim Mills and Wigan legend Billy Boston.

The recessional music was When The Saints Go Marching In and the huge crowd were encouraged to clap along [an idea, apparently from Geoff’s grandson and Saints’ academy player Josh] which brought proceedings to what can only be described as a truly uplifting conclusion.

Geoff would have loved that!

Glasses were subsequently raised back at the Totally Wicked Stadium too, where brother-in-law Neil also gave us all an insight into family life.