RESIDENTS lined the streets for a funeral held for a man dubbed a town’s mascot.

A. R. Adams Funeral Directors Ltd organised the funeral for John Daines, dubbed Laughing John, who was well known across Rayleigh.

The funeral service was held at Holy Trinity Church, Rayleigh following an impressive horse drawn procession through the town.

Residents said it was a great send-off for the popular man.

Echo:

Popular - Laughing John

Nick Owens, 38, from Rayleigh, posted pictures and tributes to the late Mr Daines on Facebook.

He said: “A town says goodbye, led by horse and cart he makes his final journey.

“Hundreds braved the rain to bid farewell.

“So long then John. We certainly gave you lots of laughs.”