Farewell, Freddy

Stars at footie chief’s funeral

EX-England star Wayne Rooney joined mourners at the funeral of former football club chief Freddy Shepherd. More than 500 people attended yesterday’s service for the businessman who was Newcastle United chairman between 1997 and 2007. One of his three sons described him as “Mr Charisma”. Former Newcastle striker Alan Shearer gave a eulogy, thanking Freddy for bringingnging him back to his hometownwn team.

Freddy, who ho helped revive the club’s lub’s fortunes, died suddenly aged 75. Fans ns at the funeral in the Newcastle suburb of Jesmondesmond rubbed shoul-ul- ders with former United managers Sam Allardyce and Kenny Dalglish, as well as ex-players including Peter Beardsley, Les Ferdinand and Shay Given. TV entertainer Dec Donnelly and his wife Ali also attended as did form former Manchester United defen defender Steve Bruce. The ser service ended with tears an and Newcastle United an anthem Local Hero.