THOUSANDS turned out to pay their last respects to a ‘caring and compassionate man who would always put others ahead of himself’.

The funeral of Lord Adam Patel took place today with around two and a half thousand people attending the ‘janaza’ at Pleasington Crematorium, Blackburn.

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Councillor Hussain Akhtar, who worked with Lord Patel for almost 50 years, said: “He did a lot for people in the community in Blackburn. He wanted to unite everyone. He was my oldest friend, and I am glad I had a friend like Adam.”

Abdul Mohmed, 69, from Blackburn, said: “I used to work making jeans and jackets for Adam and his passing is a very sad moment; but for every one good person who goes, another two will come.

“His work in the community must never be forgotten. He always did a good job for people, whether they were Indian or Pakistani. He will be missed very much.”

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The janaza took place at 3.30pm, before Lord Patel’s coffin was carried to its burial place.

More prayers are expected to be carried out over the next three days at his home in Langho.

Rashid Mogradia of the Council of British Hajjis said: “He was a very caring and compassionate person and a selfless individual.”