A former Premier League footballer has said the Queen’s funeral was a “sad day but a proud day” as he revealed his daughter played a role in the day.

Former footballer Darren Purse played in the top flight for Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion.

He also played for a string of other clubs including Cardiff City, Sheffield Wednesday and Oxford United.

Sharing a tweet with more than 18,000 followers he revealed his daughter was in the military and was taking part in the day as a member of the Royal Horse Guards.

He said: “Sad day but a proud day. My daughter on guard at Royal Horseguards for the Queens funeral.”

One fan replied: “Part of a moment in time. Can’t be a prouder dad in Britain right now I’m sure Pursey!”

Another added: “What a moment for her and you all!”

The UK mourns Her late Majesty on the day of her funeral.

Twelve days after the nation’s longest-reigning monarch died, the last steps of her journey towards her final resting place began in New Palace Yard with a procession to Westminster Abbey.

Crowds which gathered close to Parliament Square early on Monday had clapped and cheered the arrival of the King, who was driven to Westminster Hall just after 10.30am to escort his mother’s coffin to the funeral.

The Queen’s closest family all looked sombre as they followed the 123-year-old carriage ahead of the state funeral.