THOUSANDS of people have gathered on the streets of Derry this afternoon to pay their respects to Martin McGuinness.
His cortege left his home at Westland Avenue to make the journey through the streets of the Bogside for 2 pm Requiem Mass for the former deputy first minister.
It is expected to be one of the biggest funeral’s the city has seen since Bloody Sunday over 45 years ago when 13 unarmed civilians were shot dead and murdered by British Paratroopers.
The IRA commander-turned political leader died in the early hours of Tuesday, aged 66, following a short illness.
A host of dignitaries have arrived at St Columba’s Church at Long Tower which earlier today held the funeral of Derry City captain Ryan McBride.
Those attending include Former US President Bill Clinton, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Taoiseach Enda Kenny, former First Minister Peter Robinson, John and Pat Hume, former SNP leader Alex Salmond and Ardoyne priest Fr Gary Donegan.
DUP leader Arlene Foster has now confirmed that she will attend.
Secretary of State James Brokenshire is also attending and he is representing the UK government.
Crowds gathered in the Bogside to pay their respects to Martin McGuinness
Mr McGuinness’ beloved Bogside neighbourhood has come to a standstill as the funeral cortege makes its way to Long Tower chapel.
Following his Requiem Mass, the remains of Mr McGuinness will be taken to the republican plot at the City Cemetery for burial.
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