Crowds lined the streets to bid farewell to local legend Maurice Morris today.

The funeral of “Mr Margate” was held this afternoon after he made his final journey through the town where he had lived all his life.

The 91-year-old worked for many years at Dreamland, and in the 1960s and 1970s he was well-known to many big acts who played at the venue, including The Who and The Yardbirds.

He was also a regular fixture at the Margate carnival, often seen on his bike and wearing a pearly king outfit.

Residents came to pay their respects to him today as his coffin was carried in a horse-drawn carriage.

His final journey started at Dane Mount and travelled via Northdown Road, Dreamland and Margate FC before arriving at the crematorium.

Maurice was presented with the Dane Valley Citizens Award in March 2017 and in 2022 a petition was launched calling for him to be made a Freeman of Margate.

The news of Mr Morris’ death in March sparked an outpouring of tributes from people in the local community.

Paul Holton wrote on Facebook: “I know my late mother would have been devastated as they would often sit and chat, and share the occasional cup of tea at the local cafe.

“For me, he was there at almost every event supporting his community.

“He will be sorely missed.”

Photographer Frank Leppard described Mr Morris as a “legend in the town for many decades and a good friend I have loved to snap over the years”.

Mr Leppard added: “He led the Margate carnival for many years. I'm sure many of you have fond memories of him.”

In 2022, the petition calling for Mr Morris to be granted Freedom of Margate said he had “done more for Margate than any planner”.

"Everyone knows him,” wrote Tim Knibb.

"I ask for recognition of his love for Margate – I ask for him to be made a Freeman.

“Visitors from London look for him each time they come down. He has done more for the town than any planner, executive officer or councillor.”