FOOTBALLER Peter Collier was described as a "giant" and a role model for youngsters in a moving tribute at his funeral yesterday.

More than 700 mourners packed into St John the Evangelist Church in Maindee, Newport, or stood outside to say their farewells to the keen amateur footballer.

Poignant floral tributes were given to a much-loved son, husband, father and brother including a pair of football boots on a cushion of flowers and a loving message from his nine-year-old son Alex.

Mr Collier collapsed and died during a soccer match earlier this month while playing for Lliswerry. He was 36 and had been married for just over two months to Victoria.

Gordon Cain, of Lliswerry Football Club, gave a touching eulogy to a man he had known for about 20 years and who played more than 1,000 games for the team he loved.

"He always had a passion for the game and gave 100 per cent. I can't remember him missing a fixture," said Mr Cain.

"If the younger players of today were looking for a role model they needn't look any further than Peter."

He also told some affectionate anecdotes about the popular man who also loved the social side of playing for the club. Mr Cain said Mr Collier may have been small in stature but was a "giant" as a man.

On behalf of the club and the family, he thanked all the other football clubs and league officials who had sent tributes, condolences and cards following the tragedy.

Mr Collier, who lived in the Gaer, left his wife Victoria, son Alex and eight-year-old stepdaughter Lydia. He also left his father, also called Peter, mother Marilyn, and sisters Tracey and Beverley.

From an early age he enjoyed playing football, cricket and football. Reverend David Neale said Mr Collier, who originally came from Vivian Road, worked for British Dredging after leaving school and then Bisley Office Equipment.

"He was well liked by everyone and made many friends. He would help anyone out and supported many charity events.

"He was always happy, he loved taking the mickey out of everyone but he didn't do it in a nasty way, he just liked to make people happy."

Following the service, Mr Collier was buried at Christchurch Cemetery and mourners gathered afterwards at the Excelsior Club.

His coffin left the church draped with a Lliswerry FC flag. Outside, not a sound could be heard as hundreds lined the pavements and walked behind the funeral cortege in silent tribute.