The family and friends of Tony Wilson attended a private ceremony at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Manchester city centre yesterday (20 Aug) to remember the late music entrepreneur who, as previously reported, died after suffering a heart attack on 10 Aug.
The Factory records founder was mourned by a number of significant figures from the world of music and broadcasting, as well as members of the public that turned-up to pay their respects outside the church. Shaun Ryder of the Happy Mondays, and Peter Hook and Stephen Morris of New Order/Joy Division were both in attendance, as was Richard Madeley, who worked with Wilson at Granada Television, and who paid tribute to his friend by telling reporters: "He had complete and utter belief in himself and because he happened to be a very good man that wasn't a bad thing. He was a thoroughly decent man and, unusually in the world of television, he actually celebrated other people's success rather than being jealous of them. He was a true friend to us and we are missing him enormously".
As Wilson's funeral took place, Manchester City Council announced it was planning a permanent tribute to the Factory Records / In The City founder. A council spokesman told Music Week that the city would be "doing something" to mark Wilson's passing, although no more details were offered.
As well as plans for a permanent tribute, this year's In The City Convention, which is due to take place in Manchester from 20-22 Oct, is expected to be held in tribute of its late founder,