Hundreds turned out to pay their last respects to Tony Hadlow, who ran the country and western-themed Great Birchwood Caravan Park in Warton.

Mr Hadlow, who was 66, had battled bladder cancer for three years, undergoing radiotherapy, chemotherapy and an operation to remove part of the organ, before the cancer spread to his kidney and lungs.

His funeral, at St John's Church, Lytham, saw a massive gathering of friends, family and customers - many of who wore traditional cowboy-style clothing.

The stallions led the cortege from the park to the church, drawing a black carriage behind them.

Carl Hadlow, Mr Hadlow's son, who helps run the family business, said: "He was a character in his own right.

"He was a one off and they certainly broke the mould when they made him.

"He sang like an angel, was a businessman but above all he was really unique, well respected and very well thought of."

A friend told The Gazette tributes to Mr Hadlow had come from as far and wide as India, Thailand and Australia saying he had: "an impact on everyone he met."

The funeral service, led by Reverend Jack Wixon, saw standing-room only in the church as hundreds of mourners paid their respects.

Reverend Wixon read a eulogy, describing Mr Hadlow as "a people person," who loved nothing more than a family party with all his loved ones.

The congregation sang Abide With Me and The Lord Is My Shepherd before, as Mr Hadlow's coffin left the church, the Garth Brooks song – If Tomorrow Never Comes – was sung.

Mr Hadlow leaves behind his wife of 45 years, June.

They married in secret at a young age before setting up home and starting a family which gave them sons Carl, Wayne and Darren and five grandchildren.

They moved to Blackpool working on the Golden Mile before spotting the Great Birchwood for sale 25 years ago.

After a brief period as a Spanish-themed park it became the country and western style venue it is today.

Speaking about his father's battle with illness, Carl said: "He was so brave and never complained once throughout all his treatment.

"He died at home, which is where he wanted to be, surrounded by his family."