A man beloved by the boxing, racing and Gypsy communities was buried as balloons and his racing pigeons were released into the air this afternoon.

Mourners gathered at Peter Matthews’ graveside and laid down floral tributes, including ones in the shape of boxing gloves and a horse, at Epsom Cemetery.

Earlier today: "Number one champ all round” - Mourners say goodbye to father loved in racing, Gypsy and boxing communities

From yesterday: Thousands of mourners expected for big Gypsy funeral tomorrow in Epsom

Relatives and members of his boxing, who wore their tracksuits, lowered his coffin into the ground after a short memorial service and song.

At noon a funeral was held at Christ Church, Epsom Common, and his horse-drawn hearse was driven up to the winning post on Epsom Downs as he wanted.

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