More than a thousand people lined the streets of Blackpool to pay their final respects to Bernie Nolan.

The singer and actress died earlier this month at the age of 52 after a long battle with cancer.

Crowds gathered outside Blackpool’s Grand Theatre where a ceremony to celebrate her life was held and broadcast over loudspeakers for mourners and fans.

The former lead singer of The Nolans shot to fame with her sisters in the 1970s, and went on to achieve global success with hits including “I’m In The Mood For Dancing”.

Bernie’s sister Maureen read a letter Bernie had written for the ceremony prior to her death.

“Don’t be crying too much for me. Obviously I’d like a bit. I think I’m worth a little crying, but not too much,” Bernie wrote in the letter.

“No-one has had a better life than me really. Fifty years of singing, some of the best ever shows … what an amazing time I’ve had.

“Do not mourn my passing, please. Celebrate … my wonderful life.”

Mourners listened as Bernie’s 14-year-old daughter Erin read a poem, and as Linda Nolan paid a tearful tribute to her sister.

Among the guests from the world of showbiz were EastEnders star Shane Richie, singer Joe Longthorne and comic duo Cannon and Ball.