HUNDREDS of people have gathered outside St Mary Magdalene's church in Woodstock to pay their respects to the 11th Duke of Marlborough.

The Duke died last Thursday aged 88.

Lady Alexandra, Lord Edward, Lady Henrietta and the Marquess of Blandford all gave readings.

Sir Mark Weinberg also gave a tribute.

The 12th Duke of Marlborough, Lord James,  read The Lesson, from Ecclesiastes 3.1-8, the King James Bible. 

The Rector of the Benefice of Blenheim, Rev Canon Adrian Daffern said the Duke was a "man of authority, tempered by his humanity."

He added: "He loved the estate and he loved this county."

The coffin was carried out of the church to be taken back to the palace, with the 12th Duke stood at the front of the procession. 

Mourners gathered outside the church and a  funeral procession from Blenheim Palace passed through the town's streets. 

There was a sombre mood as people listen to service outside the church.

Many turned up to witness what they consider to be a moment in history. 


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Mourners line the streets of Woodstock awaiting the procession. 



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