Trade union leader and workers' hero Bob Crow is to be laid to rest today.

The family of the RMT transport union chief requested a private service at the City of London Cemetery and Crematorium, but the public is welcome to join the funeral procession.

"Bob's death leaves a massive gap in the lives of everyone who was fortunate enough to know him," said RMT president Peter Pinkney.

Thousands of trade union flags and banners are expected to be included in the funeral and are to be presented at the cemetery gates.

RMT senior assistant general secretary Mick Cash said: "The thousands of messages of condolence from every part of the globe are a testament to the courage, leadership and strength that Bob shared with so many people."

Mr Pinkney added that Mr Crow's death "represents a huge loss to the trade union and labour movement both in this country and internationally."

RMT will be mourning throughout the day, with members who are unable to attend the funeral reportedly planning to don black ties as a mark of respect. A minute 's silence will be observed at 1.30pm today in Bob Crow's memory.

RMT is building alongside other unions to make this year's May Day march one of the largest ever in honour of Mr Crow and his legacy.

The funeral procession is set to start at Snakes Lane, London, at 12pm. The family has requested for donations to be made on Bob Crow's behalf to the British Heart Foundation.