CLARETS captain Peter Noble may have been a hero to thousands - but he was just as idolised by his family.

His loved ones, friends and colleagues from across the footballing world packed out St John's the Evangelist Church in Worsthorne to celebrate a life of achievement at his funeral.

The much-loved midfielder, who lived in the village with wife Jenny, died aged 72 on May 6, prompting tributes from around the game.

His status locally, according to grandson Jack, was reinforced to him when fans dropped to their knees outside the local supermarket and chanted "hero, hero, hero".

And daughter Tracey added: "Everyone remembers the footballer but we also remember the loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather."

The funeral, conducted by the Rev John-Paul Sanderson, was attended by ex-Clarets players and managers including Frank Casper, Stan Ternent, Geoff Nulty, Derek Scott, Colin Waldron, Martin Dobson, Brian Flynn and Willie Irvine.

Rev Sanderson said: "People have been stopping me all week in the village, to share their memories of Peter. He had time for everyone."

Team-mate and former club chief executive Paul Fletcher gave the eulogy to 'Nobby', who notched up a world record 27 consecutive penalties for Burnley FC.

He told the congregation that his famed accomplishment nearly came a cropper, halfway through, when he faced Leicester City.

'Nobby' tore his groin in the run-up, said Mr Fletcher, but Foxes keeper Peter Shilton bought the 'dummy' and the ball tricked into the net.

Three weeks later, once fully recovered, he celebrated his return with another successful spot-kick, he added.

His former clubs Swindon Town, where he won a League Cup in 1968-69, and Blackpool, were also represented at the service.

The ex-Claret, who ran a popular sporting goods market stall, also leaves daughter Nicola, grandson Teddy, grand-daughter Jessica and great-grandson Oscar.

His funeral cortege passed Turf Moor later, where dozens of fans had assembled.

This was followed by cremation at Burnley, with a wake held at the Thornton Arms.