Family and friends of Carl Thompson, Britain’s heaviest man, will pay their respects to him at his funeral next week.

The 33-year-old, who weighed 65 stone, was found dead in his ground floor flat in Dofras Place, Dover, on Sunday, June 21.

The emergency services spent several hours recovering his body using a hydraulic sling.

Railings at the front of his flat were also temporarily removed to assist the operation.

The former Harbour school pupil was thrust into the media spotlight beforehand, making a plea for help after doctors told him he faced death if he did not shed 45 stones.

His daily intake of 10,000 calories was made up of takeaways, loaves of bread with jam – and he was able to eat a family size pork pie in one sitting.

Mr Thompson was bed-bound for 12 months before his death.

Carers went into his apartment three times a day to cook him meals and wash him.

Carl’s father Frank Thompson confirmed that the service will be held at Barham Crematorium, Canterbury Road, at 9.30am on Tuesday, July 7.

He said that people who want to send flowers can do so before Monday, July 6.

Otherwise, donations to Cancer Research in memory of Carl’s mum will be thankfully received.

She died of a brain tumour in 2012.

Speaking to the Mercury last week, Mr Thompson senior said: “I would not be able to find the words to express how devastated I am in any interview.

“Carl knew that we loved him and thus we have no need to make any public statement.”

WJ Farrier & Son Ltd in London Road, Dover, are looking after the arrangements for Carl’s funeral.

They can be contacted on 01304 201665.

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