Shane McGowan’s family issues emotional statement ahead of today’s funeral in Ireland

Crowds of people are expected to gather in Dublin and Tipperary for the funeral procession of Shane MacGowan in Ireland.

The songwriter, who found fame as the lead singer of London-Irish punk/folk band The Pogues, died at the age of 65 on November 30.

Ahead of today’s funeral, Shane’s family have issued a touching statement and revealed how fans can pay their respects to the iconic singer.

According to Her.ie, the statement reads: “Shane MacGowan’s wife Victoria Mary Clarke, his father Maurice, sister Siobhan, and wider family would like to thank everyone for the enormous outpouring of affection and messages of condolence they have received since his passing.

“Knowing that people might wish to have the opportunity to say a final farewell, on Friday 8th December from 11.00 am, Shane’s funeral cortege will pass through the streets of Dublin.

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“The Gardaí have asked that people wishing to pay their final respects to Shane gather on the footpath along this route.

“Shane’s family are thankful for the many people that loved him as a musician, songwriter, and champion of Ireland and its culture and hope they are in some way repaying that loyalty by giving those that loved and admired him a chance to wish him God Speed and say Slán.”

Members of the public are expected to line the streets to catch a glimpse of the procession, which will begin at St Lotts Road in Dublin City Centre at 11am.

The Pogues frontman Shane McGowan died “peacefully” on November 30 with his wife and family by his side

The procession, reported to involve a horse-drawn carriage as well as the Artane Band and a piper, will then travel through the city across MacMahon Bridge and onto Pearse Street.

It will turn onto Westland Row, onto Fenian Street and conclude at Denzille Lane at approximately 11.45am.

MacGowan’s public funeral mass, which will be livestreamed, will take place at St Mary’s of the Rosary Church in Nenagh, Tipperary at 3.30pm.

Irish President Michael D Higgins is expected to attend alongside stars such as Jonny Depp and Nick Cave.

Following the funeral mass, the public will also have the opportunity to pay their respects as the funeral cortege moves through Nenagh town centre from Church Road to Market Cross.

A private cremation will follow.