Icons of English football gathered to pay tribute to Suffolk-raised commentator John Motson as his funeral was held.

'Motty', as he was known, died last month at the age of 77.

He grew up in west Suffolk and went to Culford School near Bury St Edmunds before becoming synonymous with the game during his distinguished 50-year sports broadcasting career.

East Anglian Daily Times: Motson's coffin is carried into the crematoriumMotson's coffin is carried into the crematorium (Image: PA)

Sir Trevor Brooking, who commentated alongside Motson for the BBC, was joined by a number of former footballers at Crownhill Crematorium in Milton Keynes.

East Anglian Daily Times: Sir Trevor Brooking arrives for the funeralSir Trevor Brooking arrives for the funeral (Image: PA)

Mark Lawrenson, Garth Crooks, Martin Keown, Ray Stubbs and Bob Wilson – all of whom have worked as pundits for the BBC – were present for the service.

Martin Tyler, the lead football commentator for Sky Sports, was also pictured arriving.

Motson was hugely popular with generations of football fans and famous for his sheepskin coat.

He began working for BBC's Match of the Day in 1971 and commentated on more than 2,500 games.

East Anglian Daily Times: Guests head into the crematorium in Milton KeynesGuests head into the crematorium in Milton Keynes (Image: PA)

He covered 10 World Cups, 10 European Championships, 29 FA Cup finals and more than 200 England matches. 

Motson became an OBE for services to sports broadcasting in 2001.

After his death was announced, Culford School said in a statement: "Culford School was founded on Methodist principles and as John's father was a Methodist minister, John joined the school in 1956, spending five happy years here.

East Anglian Daily Times: Motson grew up in Suffolk and went to Culford SchoolMotson grew up in Suffolk and went to Culford School (Image: PA)

"It was during this time he discovered his passion for football, even though the teachers did not consider it a ‘proper sport’ at the time.

"John always showed a great interest in developments at Culford and was clearly thrilled by our now established football academy.

"He will be remembered by many as a legend of sports broadcasting and we are incredibly proud that Motty was an Old Culfordian."