Funeral cortege of City Lights star Gerard Kelly to drive past King's Theatre

The Glaswegian died suddenly after suffering a suspected brain aneurism. He was 51.

Spokesman for the family, Gary Barak, yesterday confirmed the funeral will be held at 10am on Friday at St Aloysius' Church in the Garnethill area of Glasgow.

Following the service, the funeral cortege will slowly drive past the city's King's Theatre en route to Daldowie Crematorium.

Barak said: "We request that no flowers are to be sent and instead we are arranging, in conjunction with the King's Theatre, a fitting tribute to Gerard.

"We all think this is exactly what he would have wanted and as well as the tribute, funds will also go towards the restoration of the King's Theatre in Gerard's name."

A memorial service will also be held at the King's early next year, Mr Barak confirmed.

Kelly died at West Middlesex University Hospital on 28 October with his family and close friends at his side.

It is understood he collapsed at his London home two days earlier.

The actor was best known for his role as Willie Melvin in the popular 1980s comedy City Lights. He also had roles in Rab C Nesbitt and Scotch and Wry, and featured in numerous pantomime performances over the years.

Kelly played a hardman in EastEnders, and appeared in Ricky Gervais's Extras.

He was due to star in The Rocky Horror Show at the King's Theatre before beginning his regular pantomime run.