THE funeral of the Isle of Man's most loved resident - Sir Norman Wisdom - will take place later this afternoon.

The event is expected to attract huge crowds of well-wishers who have been invited to pay their respects.

Family members including Norman's children and grandchildren are expected to be joined by some famous faces including actors Bradley Walsh, Todd Carty and TV executive Michael Grade.

Police have urged the public to consider alternative methods of transport if they wish to pay their respects as parking in the town centre will be sparse.

A horse drawn procession will start at the bottom of Summerhill at 1.35pm before travelling along the Promenades to St George’s Church for a service at 2pm.

Other famous faces are expected to attend a memorial service in London on February 4 2011 – Sir Norman’s birthday – with stars including Bruce Forsyth, Ken Dodd and Nicholas Parsons said to be attending.

Keep checking back to isleofman.com for the latest coverage.