Billy Connolly sad to miss Rafferty funeral

The funeral of Scottish music legend Gerry Rafferty is to take place at St Mirin's Cathedral in Paisley next Friday.

However, Billy Connolly, his former bandmate, will not be able to make it, as he will be touring Australia.

Rafferty died at his home in Dorset on 4 January, after a long illness. He had been admitted to the Royal Bournemouth Hospital in November last year with suspected liver failure. The singer, best known for his 1978 hit Baker Street had received treatment for liver failure in the past.

The Paisley-born musician had a long career, which began in the 1960s performing alongside Connolly as part of folk duo the Humblebums, before enjoying success with Stealers Wheel, who had a big hit with Stuck in the Middle With You.

A spokesman for Connolly said he was "heartbroken" he would not be able to attend.