TRIBUTES were led by former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson as football greats joined supporters and mourners to pay their final respects to Hearts, Tottenham and Scotland legend Dave Mackay.

 

The Edinburgh-born midfielder, described by the Tynecastle club as their greatest player, died in hospital earlier this month at the age of 80.

Former team-mates and famous football faces including Denis Law, Pat Jennings, Ian St John and Bertie Auld attended Mackay's funeral.

Parts of the capital came to a standstill as a cortege made its way from Hearts' Tynecastle Stadium to Mansfield Traquair Church and then to a private family service at Warriston Crematorium.

Streets around the stadium were lined by hundreds of fans who applauded and threw scarves and flowers on top of the funeral car as it drove past.

A large bouquet and note from players and staff at Tottenham Hotspur described Mackay as a "legend".

Mackay captained Hearts to the Scottish League title and helped Spurs to the first league and FA Cup double.

Hearts chaplain Andy Prime led the service, which started with FA Cup hymn Abide With Me.

Sir Alex recalled the only time he played against Mackay, known as a hard-hitter on the field.

He said: "I was playing for Queens Park reserves against Hearts reserves at Tynecastle and the great Mackay was playing because he was coming back from a broken toe.

"He tackled me and I thought 'Christ', but in those days you had to get up no matter what.

"So I got up, had a look at that big barrel chest of his and he just said 'are you alright, son?'.

"That was a great memory, the only time I played against Dave Mackay and I'll never forget it."

Sir Alex also lamented that Mackay won only 22 caps for Scotland.

He said: "Everyone talks about his courage and bravery but he was a fantastic footballer, he was skilful, he could play anywhere and he proved that.

"He was a fantastic guy and it's a privilege to speak here today.

"I think we've seen the passing of a true, great legend."

The current Hearts squad of players were in attendance with manager Robbie Neilson and owner Ann Budge.

Former Hearts striker John Robertson gave a reading at the memorial while Sir Alex and Mackay's former Spurs team-mate Cliff Jones spoke about their memories of the 80-year-old.

During the service, Tommy Mackay read a tribute of behalf of his cousin Val, Dave Mackay's eldest daughter.

It said: "Dad would do anything for anyone, he was so generous and had an extraordinary caring nature. But woe betide any bullies he came across.

"We will miss your smile, your thumbs-up and your kindness.

"We are so proud of you and what you did, you were an absolute genius, and most comforting of all we were able to tell you this a few weeks ago."

Mr Jones said: "It was an honour to know him and, until we meet again, rest in peace."