THE FUNERAL of one of the devoted Newcastle United fans who died on the doomed Flight MH17 will be held tomorrow (Thursday, August 21).

The family of Liam Sweeney have said all are welcome to his funeral service at St Mary’s Cathedral, in Newcastle, at 10am. This will be followed by a private burial for friends and family only.

The 28-year-old of Killingworth, Newcastle, died along with John Alder, 63, when a Malaysia Airlines jet was shot down over war-torn Ukraine, as they travelled to see their beloved Magpies play in New Zealand.

As final preparations are made for the funeral, Prince Charles has written a personal letter to the family.

The letter addressed to father Barry Sweeney, 52, reads: “Although I’m afraid this is rather belated, my wife and I just wanted you to know how very much our hearts go out to you following the truly unimaginable tragedy of the loss of your son, Liam, on board flight MH17.

“You can have no idea how deeply we feel for you and your family over the unbearable anguish you are having to endure.”

It continues: “I fear that under such appalling and shocking circumstances mere words are hopelessly and utterly inadequate.

“So although we realise only too well that it will be of no comfort whatsoever, all we can do is to hold you in our most special thoughts and prayers at such an agonising time.”

Mr Sweeney, full-time carer to wife Lesley, 53, said: “It’s such a nice touch. I can’t believe this has gone right to the top.

“We are making a memory box for Liam and the letter will be put in there.”