Rik Mayall funeral: Family and friends mourn The Young Ones comedian at 'private' service

The 'private' service took place in Devon today

Rik Mayall’s friends and family paid tribute to the late comedian at his funeral in Devon today.

Around 140 guests attended the “private” service, including Dawn French, Ben Elton, Alan Rickman, Peter Richardson, Nigel Planer, Jennifer Saunders and Ruby Wax.

Mayall’s coffin was decorated in red flowers and carried into St George’s Church in the village of Dittisham in Devon.

“He was honestly one of the funniest people ever,” said French before the funeral. “A breathtakingly funny and beautiful guy - a real tragic loss.”

The Blackadder and The Young Ones actor died on 9 June, aged 56, following an “acute cardiac event” at his home in south-west London after a morning run. A post-mortem proved inconclusive.

Comedian Rik Mayall died in June 2014 aged 56 (Corbis)

His wife, Barbara Robbin, whom he married in 1985, said earlier this week that the funeral would be a “private family” event. A memorial service will take place in September.

“We will be burying him at 2pm on Thursday June 19 if you would like to join us in thoughts and prayer at this time,” she said.

“Thank you again for all your love and support to all our family, it brings great strength.”