RASTAFARIANS from across the country visited the North-East to say goodbye to a “shining star”.

Rasta, musical legend and much-loved family man Patrick Anselm was laid to rest to the beat of drums on Monday morning.

The 37-year-old founder of the internationally-renowned Instrument of Jah Sound System died recently following a short battle with cancer.

Leading a moving humanist ceremony at Acklam Crematorium, minister Beryl Nunn said Mr Anselm, who lived in Middlesbrough, fitted more into his short life than most would ever do.

The former soldier, who served in Bosnia, leaves behind partner Joanne Wilson, children Trinity and Elijah and a world-wide community saddened by their loss.

A highly-respected DJ at festivals and clubs including the Bongo in Middlesbrough, Mr Anselm gave years of his life to supporting the music scene in the UK and across the world.

His funeral service saw colourfully-dressed mourners beat drums to several tracks while cherished family memories were shared.

Mr Anselm’s young daughter, Trinity, paid tribute to her father, saying: “My dad was the most spirit-lifting person I know.

“Everyone here today knows what a kind man he was, he was always full of life, strength and power."

Ms Nunn said Mr Anselm had been looked upon as a shining star by his peers.

She said: “Patrick was a peaceful man who adopted the Rastafarian belief and grew his hair long as a reminder never to respond to anger in others.

“He once said he aimed to promote love and unity with the power of music and he did that.

“He loved life and lived it to the full – he was a man of dedication, decency and respectability.

“Patrick was a leader and he had followers.”

She added: “A shining star has gone out and left behind the memory of how brilliantly it shone and the warmth that radiated from it.

“Patrick will always be remembered for his strength, compassion, generosity and love for life.

“Let his life inspire us to be more compassionate, non-judgemental and loving.

“May his loving, bass-rocking vibes guide you on your way.”

Mr Anselm’s family thanked those that had been there for them throughout his illness, in particular the Macmillan and district nurses who supported them.

His partner, Joanne, pledged to keep the Instrument of Jah Sound System going with the support of her children and friends.

*The Northern Echo attended Mr Anselm's funeral with the permission of his family.