Snooker star's family sees coffin brought to church
The widow and baby daughter of snooker star Paul Hunter led mourners today as his coffin was brought to rest in a church before his funeral later this week.
Hunter, who was seen as one of the rising stars of the sport, died last week aged only 27 after a battle with cancer.
Today his widow Lindsey and his 10-month-old daughter Evie were at Leeds Parish Church to watch the coffin being brought in along with his parents and other family members.
Mrs Hunter also wrote in a book of condolence which was opened today in the church where the funeral service will take place on Thursday.
Her entry read: "To Paul. You are my husband - forever. You are Evie's Daddy forever.
"You are our rock and will always be with us.
"You made us what we are as a family. All our hearts always. Love you forever. Your family, Lindsey and Evie Rose."
Other members of Hunter's family also signed the book before lighting candles.
After the coffin was brought into the church a short service was held.
Hundreds of family, friends, fans and colleagues from the international professional snooker circuit are expected to attend Thursday's funeral.
The coffin will lie in the Lady Chapel of the church for the next two days and the book of condolence is available for visitors to sign.
The rising star of the snooker world died just over a week ago in a Huddersfield hospice after a 19-month battle with cancer.
He had been diagnosed with dozens of neuroendocrine tumours in the lining of his stomach in March 2005.
Despite chemotherapy treatment, Hunter continued to compete professionally but won only one match last season.
