MANCHESTER UNITED stars past and present have arrived for Kath Phipps' funeral.
The much-loved former Old Trafford receptionist passed away last month at the age of 85.
Phipps had worked at the club since the 1960s, joining when Sir Matt Busby was manager.
David Beckham was among those who arrived for the ceremony at Manchester Cathedral on Monday afternoon.
The former United star, 49, was visited by Kath in her final days before her sad passing.
He was accompanied to the cathedral today by his mother Sandra and father Ted.
Following news of Phipps' death, Beckham posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying: “The first and last face I always saw was Kath sitting at the reception at Old Trafford waiting to give me my tickets for the to hand over the competition.
“She was the heartbeat of Manchester United, everyone knew who Kath was and everyone loved her.
“I moved to Manchester when I was 15 and Kath promised my mum and dad: 'I'll look after your son, don't worry.'”
Ruben Amorim's entire first-team squad also attended the funeral, with legendary United boss Sir Alex Ferguson delivering a eulogy.
Past stars including Gary Neville, Bryan Robson, Roy Keane and Mark Hughes also paid their respects on a rainy day in the North West.
United paid tribute to Phipps last month, with the club expressing its “heartache” in a statement.
It said: “A statement read: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved colleague Kath Phipps at the age of 85.
“A ubiquitous figure at Manchester United since the late 1960s, Kath worked for the club for more than 55 years in a variety of roles, but her contribution went beyond a particular job title.
“Having become a key member of the club's office staff in the following years, Kath later became a fixture on match day at the directors' entrance to Old Trafford, taking on the role of training ground receptionist, ensuring that every visitor to Carrington was greeted by the happiest of people.
“Kath was a one-woman institution whose memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her.
“She said last year, 'I can't imagine doing anything else.' Well, we can't imagine this place without her. Rest in peace, Kath.”
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