Baggies to host celebration of Cyrille Regis's life as funeral arrangements are announced

The star's private family funeral will be held on Tuesday, January 30.

And Albion have confirmed The Hawthorns will stage a service to celebrate Cyrille's life immediately after the funeral.

The club said this event will be 'a celebration of his life and career'.

It will allow Cyrille's fans – from both football and the wider world – to join his family at the stadium he always considered home.

The service for the Albion, Wolves and Villa star will be held in the East Stand, looking out to the pitch which graced his thrilling talents.

It will be conducted by Pastor David Carr from the church Cyrille attended, the Renewal Christian Centre in Solihull from 11am.

There will be seats available to supporters and the general public who want to pay their respects to one of the Baggies' all-time greats. The club will announce details next week of how fans can attend.

Otherwise, supporters will have a chance to say their farewells earlier in the day, as Cyrille’s funeral cortege will leave The Hawthorns at 8.45am.

The club are making plans to accommodate fans who want to salute Cyrille, who died this week aged 59, before the cortege leaves for the private family service.

Albion have also confirmed the impromptu 'shrine' at the Astle Gates will remain in place until after the next Premier League home game, against Southampton, for which the club is planning a major salute to its former England striker.

The tributes will then be gathered and presented to the family.

In a further mark of respect to Cyrille, the stadium flags at The Hawthorns will remain at half-mast until after his funeral.

A club statement said: "Julia and Cyrille’s children Robert and Michelle have once again asked us to convey the family’s huge appreciation for the messages of love and support which continue to flood in from Albion fans and the wider football community."

Cyrille worked as an agent with the Stellar Group after his playing career ended. As part of their support for the family the company is helping to track down some of the footballing greats from his era as well as his work as an agent.

Stellar Group chairman Jonathan Barnett said: “Cyrille gave so much to football and did so much outside the game for so many – this is our chance to say thank you.

"While we are still in shock and sadness at his loss it will be wonderful to celebrate his life and achievements in this way.”

Former colleagues, contemporaries and friends who want to attend the celebration service should email rob.doyle@stellargroup.co.uk