Wales legend Mark Hughes carries his son's coffin as he pays final respects

Leading sports figures joined mourners for the funeral of football agent and former player Alex Hughes, following his death at the age of 38.

His father, Wales legend Mark Hughes, and other family members carried the coffin into the service at St Peter's Church in Prestbury, Cheshire.

Alex Hughes' wife Jess, whom he had known since school, was accompanied by their sons, Sebastian and Leonardo.

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson attended the funeral along with Bryan Robson and Ryan Giggs among others.

Hughes' father-in-law, David Pollock, gave a moving eulogy, explaining how Hughes was proud of his boys, who had begun pointing to the skies after scoring goals.

Hughes had spells at Wrexham and Stockport County before ending his playing career to work in player analysis and recruitment.

He worked for Blackburn, Manchester City and Fulham, who were all managed by his father, before leading a private academy in Portugal.

He went on to become a player agent and worked for non-league clubs AFC Fylde and Morecambe FC before becoming player recruitment lead at League Two club Grimsby Town last July.

A heartfelt tribute from his father and mother Jill read: "Alex, thank you for giving us the privilege of being your mum and dad.

"Thank you for every smile, every laugh, every hug, every precious memory."

Previously, former Manchester United, Chelsea and Wales striker Hughes paid tribute to his son in a statement released via the League Managers Association.

"Jill and I are totally heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected loss of our beloved son Alex," said the 62-year-old, who managed Wales between 1999 and 2004.

"Alex was a wonderful son, brother to Curtis and Xenna, devoted husband and father to Jessica and their two beautiful children Sebastian and Leonardo.

"Alex had many good friends and colleagues. He will be so deeply missed by us all."

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