Hundreds say farewell to Gary

The funeral of former Reds’ skipper, Gary Messenger, took place on Thursday and hundreds of mourners turned out to say an emotional farewell.

Gary passed away towards the end of last month at the age of 62.

The Very Reverend Dr Frances Ward conducted a touching service with readings and poems impeccably delivered by friends and family.

The football fraternity was well represented amongst the congregation who packed St John’s Church, Workington and Distington Hall Crematorium on Thursday, with dozens of former Reds players in attendance. There was also a strong contingent of ex. Barrow players at the service.

Gary’s football career, throughout the eighties and nineties, included nine seasons with Workington plus spells with Barrow, Gretna and Newcastle Blue Star.

The club sends condolences to Janice, Kristian and Matthew and the wider family at this sad time.