Strangers join family at murderer Moat's funeral

The 20-minute private service at Newcastle's West Road Crematorium attracted a large crowd, including strangers who regard the murderer as a hero.

Moat sparked a huge manhunt last month after shooting his ex-lover and killing her new boyfriend, Chris Brown. The next day he blasted unarmed police officer David Rathband in the face, leaving him blind.

The 37-year-old killed himself after a week on the run following a six hour stand-off with police snipers.

Among the floral tributes displayed on the grass outside the venue was one which included the word "Dad" in white carnations.

Another read: "Raoul, this didn't have to end like this. Sleep tight bruv, until later, Angus."

And despite Moat's family's attempts to stop people who were not friends paying their respects, mother-of-eight Theresa Bystram, 45, travelled on an overnight bus from Weybridge, Surrey, along with three of her sons, to be present.

The results of a second post-mortem, requested by the family, are due later this week.