Drummer Lee Rigby has been remembered as a “gentle soul” who was “larger than life” as thousands of mourners gathered to remember the murdered soldier.

Members of the public applauded the 25-year-old’s family, who joined about 800 mourners inside for the private funeral service at Bury Parish Church.

Drummer Rigby’s wife Rebecca walked in with the couple’s two-year-old son Jack, who wore a T-shirt with the words “My Daddy My Hero” on the back.

The soldier’s comrades and forces veterans were also applauded as they arrived at the church, where comrades had maintained a guard of honour overnight.

The father-of-one, a drummer in the 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (2RRF), was killed as he returned to Woolwich barracks from the Tower of London in May.

Ahead of the service, a silence was held at Woolwich before the Last Post was played.

Prime Minister David Cameron and London Mayor Boris Johnson were among dignitaries attending the funeral.

Delivering the eulogy, Drummer Rigby’s commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Jim Taylor described him as “an extremely popular soldier”.

“A larger-than-life personality, he loved to perform and belonged in the Second Fusiliers’ Corps of Drums,” he said.

“He was truly charismatic.

“To be with Lee was to be where it was most fun – the centre of good times and much mischief.

“Lee had a natural swagger and the confidence of someone truly comfortable in their own skin.

“He was always happy. His smile was infectious, as was his enthusiasm for soldiering and his passion for life.”

Lieutenant Colonel Taylor said Drummer Rigby joined the Army in 2006 on his third attempt, fulfilling his “lifelong ambition”.

He said it was “an early indication of how doggedly determined he was when he set his mind to something”.

Ending his eulogy, the commanding officer said: “Today we, his regimental family, salute a fallen comrade.

“A talented soldier and musician. A larger-than-life character. A loyal friend and brother-in-arms. A gentle soul.

“Above all a true Fusilier – daring in all things. We all feel his loss keenly. We will remember him with pride always.

“Today we stand shoulder to shoulder with his family and friends. We will continue to do so in the years to come.

“So, thanks be to God for Lee Rigby – father, husband, son, brother, friend, Fusilier. We will remember him.”

Drummer Rigby had served in Afghanistan as a machine gunner and was attached to the regimental recruiting team when he was murdered.

The killing sparked nationwide shock and revulsion and led to an outpouring of support for his family from the public.

The family wanted a private service with mourners asked to show their respects by lining the streets outside.

Mourners heard the service on loudspeakers from inside the church.

The hymns were Who Would True Valour See, Lord Of All Hopefulness and I Vow To Thee My Country, and the choir sang Deep Peace Of The Running Wave.

[adrotate banner=”33″]