Hundreds of friends and family turned out today for the funeral of a man who was killed outside his workplace in Tunbridge Wells.

James Wallington, of Somerset Road, was stabbed to death at Cory Environmental Ltd on March 9.

The 44-year-old, who worked at the recycling centre in North Farm Lane, died despite the efforts of paramedics.

This afternoon more than 200 people gathered at All Saints Church in Crowborough for his final send-off.

Mr Wallington's coffin, which had a Chelsea FC football and pillow placed on top, was carried into the church ahead of the service at 2.30pm.

His four children, mother and close family friends walked slowly behind.

Tributes were made to the father-of-four who was known by many as 'Wog' or 'Wogster'.

During the service Reverend Canon Andrew Cornes spoke about Mr Wallington's life, his love for his family and enjoyment of social activities including football.

The keen sportsman had been a member of the Tunbridge Wells Foresters football club for over 15 years.

The words of Mr Wallington's mum Iris and sister Nicole were read out.

His school days were recounted as mourners were told he didn't "excel" in class but loved the outdoors.

He attended Claremont Primary School before going to Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for boys where he was an army cadet and a member of the amateur operatic dramatic society.

They were also told he was known as a "cat with nine lives" after suffering many injuries but he would always tell his family "I shall survive".

John Huddlestone, Nicole's husband, read out her tribute to her brother.

He said: "I'm sorry you will never get to visit my homeland. I am sorry that you will never get to travel the world. I am sorry that I will never get to see those pearly whites and that smile.

"Today is a day that we sadly must begin to move forward without James in our lives.

"He has gone to join many other friends who have died far too young. You are their guardian angel now."

Canon Cornes spoke of Mr Wallington's friendly personality and positive nature.

He added: "James was someone who loved fun. Iris, James' mother, said he was always smiling.

"For many people those blue eyes, when he smiled, were captivating.

"It is not very surprising how many people are here today. He was very sociable, always friendly.

"Everyone here will have some memories of his laugh and jokes and the fun you had with him.

"James loved his family, his children. He loved being with them when he could. The news of his death brought many of us down low. It made many of us sad."

Sara Brightman and Andrea Bocelli's Time to Say Goodbye was played as friends and family sat in silence, remembering Mr Wallington.

Many of those at the funeral bowed their heads and wept as the coffin was slowly carried out of the church to You'll Never Walk Alone by Gerry and the Pacemakers.

Family and close friends continued on to the cremation at Kent and Sussex Crematorium in Tunbridge Wells.

Mr Wallington leaves behind four children, Sophie, Masie, Joe and George.

A wake was held at the Spread Eagle in Hawkenbury.

Donations were made to the Tunbridge Wells Street Pastors and the Kent, Sussex and Surrey air ambulance.

David Squelch, of Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood was arrested and charged with murder following Mr Wallington's death.

He is due to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on May 27.