THE garish jackets and flamboyant ties were out in force as more than 2,000 people packed York Minster to celebrate the life of former Countdown host Richard Whiteley.

His co-host, Carol Vorderman, led the emotional tributes to "Mr Yorkshire", who died aged 61 in June following a heart operation.

Ms Vorderman, wearing a scarlet dress, struggled to hold back her tears at one point, and told the congregation that her friend was a unique man.

"We loved him not because he was smooth but because he wore truly bad jackets, deafening ties and jokes that were so bad only Richard could tell them," she said.

"He was the best company you could possibly wish for."

Celebrities from the world of entertainment, including opera diva Lesley Garrett, broadcasting legend Alan Whicker and comedienne Jo Brand, packed the his-toric cathedral for the service, which was also attended by his partner Kathryn Apanowicz.

Many of those who attended wore garish jackets and brightly coloured ties in honour of Mr Whiteley, who lived in Burley Woodhead was famous for his eccentric dress code.

As well as family and friends, and celebrities from the world of television, many of those who packed into the cathedral were members of the public wishing to pay their last respects. Dozens more without tickets waited outside to soak up the atmosphere.

Ms Vorderman added: "We are here today to celebrate a unique man. Richard loved every moment of his life, which he lived to the full. He loved every second he was on Countdown. He knew he was lucky, most of us don't. His Countdown and TV family loved him, and he really loved us."

Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth, former ITN chairman Sir Paul Fox, and comedian Barry Cryer all shared their special memories of Mr Whiteley during the service.

Mr Whiteley's niece, Georgina Stewart, paid tribute to her beloved uncle.

She said she remembered his quick wit, sharp intelli-gence and sensitivity.

"He was scared of death -- he had not finished the business of living," she told the congregation. "He is irreplaceable, the void he leaves behind is ormless and vast."

She recounted the private side of Mr Whiteley, when he was at home enjoying the company of friends and family, and telling stories.

Sir Paul said: "Richard had an old-fashioned view of the world. He believed in raditional virtues -- he was a man of the people, he was never high-handed about himself, he was often too modest about his achievements.

"He was a happy man, good company and a loyal friend. He had won the affection of millions, we should remember him not just in our heads, but in our hearts."

Musician Rick Wakeman performed a piece during the service called Gone But Not Forgotten, while some of Mr Whiteley's favourite hymns were played, including Jerusalem. A mass choir of 60 choristers from Giggleswick School, which Mr Whiteley attended from the age of 13, also performed.