Sir Jimmy Savile is to be buried in a gold coffin, the YEP can reveal.
And fans of the Leeds legend will also get the chance to bid farewell to the city’s favourite son ahead of his funeral in Leeds next Wednesday.
The body of the 84-year-old, found dead at his home in Roundhay four days ago, will be placed in a gold coloured coffin at the Queen’s Hotel in Leeds, on Tuesday – although not in an open casket. It will be on display from 9am until 4.30pm on Tuesday when members of the public can pay their final respects.
The funeral, on Wednesday, November 9, at 2pm at St Anne’s Catholic Cathedral, will be preceded by a procession around the streets before the requiem Mass.
It is believed the cortege will drive past Leeds General Infirmary, where Sir Jimmy spent many happy years as a voluntary porter and visitor. It is also the place where he donated millions of pounds for research and equipment.
The cortege will drive past the place was born and brought up at Consort Terrace in Woodhouse.
The broadcasting legend is to be buried in Scarborough on a grassy hill top over looking the sea at Woodlands Cemetery, on Thursday November 10, at 12.30pm.
It is understood that one of his final wishes was to be buried in Scarborough, overlooking the sea.
A close friend said: “He really loved Scarborough.
“He wanted to be buried in one of his favourite places.”
Sir Jimmy’s funeral, which is being handled by Joseph A Hey & Son Ltd, is expected to be a huge affair, with members of the public as well as family, friends and celebrities, expected to attend. The cathedral has a capacity of up to 600 people.
It is understood his family are keen for the public to attend both the funeral mass and the burial, in Scarborough, the next day, as it is what he would have wanted.
Roger Foster said: “Jimmy was a wonderful man, his public face is well-known but we knew him as much more than an uncle, he was a very good friend. Jimmy will be sadly missed by very many people.”
A spokesman for the Diocese of Leeds, said: “I can confirm that Sir Jimmy Savile’s funeral is to be held at 2pm on Wednesday November 9 at St Anne’s and he is to be buried in Scarborough the next day.”
Meanwhile, a book of condolence, opened at Saviles Hall, at Clarence Dock – named in Sir Jimmy’s honour – is being signed by fans.
Chris Owen, marketing director of Royal Armouries International (plc) said: “We have been astonished at the numbers of people who want to sign the book. We’ve heard some amazing stories over the last few days, including one from a man who used to carry his records in the old dance hall days of Leeds Macca.”
Savile’s Hall is seeking a new venue to place the book, possibly in the city centre, where people can sign it, ahead of the funeral.
The book will then be given to Sir Jimmy’s family.
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