Stars give thanks for Sir Harry

Prince Charles joined stars including Rolf Harris, June Whitfield and Ronnie Corbett at Westminster Abbey today to pay tribute to the late Sir Harry Secombe.

Hundreds of friends and members of the Goon Show legend's family also attended a service of thanksgiving for his life and work.

Sir Harry, who died in April from cancer aged 79, was loved by millions for his wit, particularly for the radio shows with fellow Goons, Spike Milligan and the late Peter Sellers. In later life he was better known for religious TV shows including Highway.

His widow, Myra, was at the Abbey with their daughters Jenny and Katy. Russ Abbot, Simon Callow, Dame Thora Hird and Eric Sykes were among the celebrities there, but Milligan, 83, was said to be too unwell.

Sir John Birt, Michael Grade and Greg Dyke attended. Prince Charles is well-documented as a Goons fan, but Prince Philip, Princess Margaret and Princess Anne also sent representatives. In honour of Sir Harry's roots, the Welsh flag flew above the Abbey.

The service was led by The Very Rev Dr Wesley Carr, Dean of Westminster, who paid tribute to the comic's genius - particularly his Goon character, Neddie Seagoon - and his "outstanding" charitable work.

He said: "Today we remember Sir Harry Secombe, the clown. We thank God for the way in which he enriched our world." Michael Parkinson was reading "A Recollection" of his friend, while Jimmy Tarbuck was giving an address.