Paul Chuckle’s farewell to brother Barry
CELEBRITIES turned out in force yesterday to say farewell to Barry Chuckle.
His family also opened up the funeral to the comic’s fans so they could say the catchphrase “to me, to you” one final time.
Heartbroken brother and comedy double act partner Paul wiped tears from his eyes as he carried the coffin with a note saying: “Miss you Baz.”
Comedian Roy Chubby Brown, 73, singers Linda and Maureen Nolan, telly star Vicki Michelle, 67, and funnyman Bernie Clifton, 82, joined the mourners.
Ex-EastEnders star John Altman,
66, former Rotherham United boss Ronnie Moore, 65, and Leeds United legend Eddie Gray, 70, were among the crowd at Rotherham’s New York Stadium.
Other celebrities at the funeral included comedian Tommy Cannon,
80, Crackerjack star Don Maclean, and Gogglebox siblings Sophie and Pete Sandiford. A private service for close friends and family took place inside the South Yorkshire ground.
The comic, real name Barry Elliott, died two weeks ago aged 73 after a battle with bone cancer.
He found fame with Paul, 70, in the hit kids show ChuckleVision which ran for 21 seasons from 1987 to 2009.
After his death Paul described Barry as his “very best friend”. The pair were made honorary presidents at Rotherham United in 2007.
Chuckle Brothers fan Barbara Gamston, 86, said: “I’d like to watch him go because he has been such a big thing for Rotherham and everywhere by making people happy.
“I’ve got three generations which have grown up with them.
“To a Yorkshire lad from a Yorkshire lass, goodbye from me to you.” Barry’s family thanked his legions of fans for their “love and support”.
A statement read: “As a family we would welcome fans to celebrate his life and pay their respects with us outside the New York Stadium.
“We are overwhelmed with the love and support we have received over the last few days and thank everyone concerned.”