Pat Karney funeral: Andy Burnham says he shaped Manchester

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has described long-serving Manchester councillor Pat Karney as a "political genius" at his funeral, saying his "spirit is in every street" of the city.

Burnham, who worked alongside the Labour politician for 25 years, told mourners: "I loved Pat and I looked up to him and I will miss him as we all will."

Karney, who represented Harpurhey in north Manchester from 1979, died on 13 October aged 78. He was known for championing the city's major celebrations and played a significant role in its political life.

Before the service, his hearse paused in Albert Square, where a Ferris wheel displayed the message "Thank You Pat" beside the city's Christmas Markets.

The funeral cortege passed Manchester Town Hall before continuing to the church, known as the Hidden Gem, on Mulberry Street.

The service began at 10:00 GMT, with Abide with Me the first hymn.

During his funeral address, Burnham recalled the many sides of Karney, from his political campaigning to his sense of humour and love of celebrations.

"He knew in his bones how much Manchester likes a party," he said.

Burnham recalled once raising concerns about the Christmas Markets starting earlier each year, only for Karney to tell him: "Andy, I'll start them in July if I could."

He also praised Karney's political influence, describing him as the "godfather of the most successful Labour group in the country".

He said Karney had been instrumental in resolving disagreements within the Labour group and had played an important part in the city's transformation.

The prime minister also recalled Karney's involvement in campaigning against anti-LGBT legislation in the 1980s and his dedication to the people of Harpurhey.

"Pat shaped this place. His spirit is in every street," he said.

Education Secretary Lucy Powell, the MP for Manchester Central, said Karney "wouldn't have wanted us all to be sad today".

She said he would have wanted people to remember his personality, sense of fun and love for the city.

But Powell said there had also been a serious side to his work, particularly his involvement in regenerating Manchester city centre.

Former Manchester City Council leader Sir Richard Leese, who worked alongside Karney for decades, echoed those sentiments.

"What's often not acknowledged is he was a very, very serious politician," he said.

Sir Richard said Karney had been central to major decisions during his 25 years as council leader, including Manchester's recovery from the 1996 IRA bombing and its response to the Covid pandemic.

He also recalled how Karney would not accept criticism of the city.

People gathered outside the church, known locally as the Hidden Gem, to watch the invitation-only service on a large screen.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds was among those paying their respects.

Karney had served on Manchester City Council since 1979 and was closely associated with the city's major celebrations.

Its Christmas Markets are due to open on Friday, the first time the event has taken place since his death.

Born in Dublin, Karney moved to Manchester aged nine. He campaigned for gay rights and helped organise protests against Section 28 of the Local Government Act 1988, which prohibited local authorities from promoting homosexuality.

He helped establish Manchester Day celebrations in 2010 and was closely associated with the city's Christmas Markets, which open on Friday for the first time since his death.

A private burial was planned after the service.

His family has asked for donations to The Christie Charity in place of flowers.