She read a tribute from one of Martin’s cousins, whose name was given only as Tish, who Rev Gardner said was “one of the people he was closest to in his early years”.
“Unfortunately, Tony was sent to boarding school at a very young age and apart from being very sports orientated, and won many sports trophies, he was very misunderstood and didn’t enjoy the rest of boarding school life which left him very lonely and with a sad attitude to his life.
Addressing those gathered, Rev Gardner said: “There are many people who think that they knew Tony from the media coverage over the years.
A teddy bear and a framed photo of Martin were placed beside the coffin as the service, attended by dozens of people and led by Reverend Sandra Gardner, took place.
Rev Gardner said Martin “loved to spend time in his garden tending and nurturing all that he grew”.
