HUNDREDS of people gathered in Blackburn town centre - as the funeral of Tarro ‘Taz’ Grogan took place.

More than 500 mourners all dressed in black, made their way to Blackburn Cathedral to pay their respects to the 29-year-old father-of-two, who was stabbed to death on the Roe Lee estate on October 14.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Relatives and friends of the popular mixed-martial arts champion waited outside the cathedral as a three-car funeral cortege slowly approached, carrying his family, including sister, Cherish Duckworth.

Mr Grogan’s white coffin was decorated in family photos and two huge white floral tributes with the words ‘Taz’ and ‘Daddy’ were placed alongside it in the funeral car.

READ MORE: Supporters rally round for Taz

Lancashire Telegraph:

Guests made their way inside to take their seats, with many having to stand at the back of the packed cathedral, while He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother, by The Hollies played.

Leading the congregation, Reverend Peter Howell-Jones said: “It’s wonderful to see so many people here this afternoon - what a wonderful testimony to the man that he was.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

After the first hymn, Mr Grogan’s mother spoke to the congregation expressing how much she loved her son.

She said: “You had so many hurdles in your life and so many goals you wanted to pass, and you passed them with flying colours.

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“I just want you to know, son, that I get it. I get what you were saying to me about family sticking together. Now, I want to help make memories with your daughters.

“I love you always Tarro.”

READ MORE: Trial date set for Taz Grogan murder case

A former pupil at Witton Park School, and a member of Blackburn Predators, Mr Grogan was described as a natural athlete and someone who lived life to the full.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Reverend Howell-Jones said: “Taz was in the prime of his life. He was very much full of life. He was fit and a naturally gifted athlete.

“He was one of those people who worked hard and played hard; he loved a practical joke and loved his family and his daughters.

Lancashire Telegraph:

“He was a very talented artist and before his death had started college to develop his art skills.

“It’s easy to recognise that Taz will be sorely missed by so many, and the tributes on social media are testament to that.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

During the service, Jess Glynne’s song, I’ll Be There, was played, and mourners were given time to reflect on the life of the much-loved father.

READ MORE: Pictures and tributes to Tarro Grogan

Bringing the funeral to an end, Reverend Howell-Jones expressed the gratitude felt by Mr Grogan’s family in the weeks since his death, saying the generosity and care of so many in the community had been overwhelming.

Lancashire Telegraph:

As Mr Grogan’s coffin was placed back into the hearse following the 45 minute service, no one could hold back the tears.

A burial committal attended by close friends and family took place at Pleasington Cemetery and was followed by a wake at the Farthings pub in Rosewood Avenue, Blackburn.

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