TWO-hundred mourners paid their respects to a mother and two sons who died in a Blackpool hotel last month.

Three white coffins could be seen at the front of Blackpool's Sacred Heart Church yesterday, containing the bodies of Patricia Jarvis, 36, and her sons -- Blackburn Rovers fans John, 11 and Stuart, eight.

Patricia was originally from Darwen and her 86-year-old grandmother lives in sheltered accommodation in the town.

Patricia's husband, John Jarvis, has been charged with their murders. He will appear at a plea and directions hearing at Preston Crown Court on July 28.

The Requiem Mass, conducted by Father Denis Blackledge, had hymns, prayers and a tearful rendition of Wind Beneath My Wings as the coffins were carried out of the church to Carleton Crematorium.

Talbot Square was filled with onlookers who watched the coffins carried out the church and placed into the waiting hearses.

Comments from Patricia's father, Trevor Cook, who originated from Darwen before emigrating to South Africa, were read by Father Blackledge at the service.

He said: "I will never be able to take the boys back to Blackburn Rovers. God bless you. You never deserved an end like this.

"Patricia was to me everything a father could wish of a daughter."

Trevor referred to Patricia as "a delight to be around" and said that he had been "blessed" to have a child like her.

He added: "I will never get over the loss of my daughter."

Patricia's sister, Julie, said that Patricia was dedicated to her family and would always look for the silver lining with any situation.

Again Father Blackledge read her comments to the congregation.

She said: "John was always such a busy, loving boy - alert, brown eyes, with a cute smile. You filled your short life with so much energy and vigour. Stuart, you melted many hearts with your loving smile."

Nick Wilsden knew Patricia, affectionately referred to as Trish, when he met her last May in Kent, where she worked as a care worker. Nick, from Gillingham, said: "Trish's kindness, humour and enthusiasm would blow away most dark clouds. I cannot even begin to imagine the loss felt by her family.

"Trish touched many people's hearts and it's the community that has also lost a special person.

"Trish, you have left a lasting impression and memories that cannot be taken from those who knew you." Nick spoke of her two young sons, and said: "Your mum is very proud of you, John and Stuart. She told me this many times."