Family of Wellingborough's Karaoke Karen thank the hundreds of people who lined streets for final farewell

Hundreds turned out to pay their respects to Karen Cooper, who died earlier this month aged 55.

Karen was well known for her singing outside the Swansgate Shopping Centre in the town, often with music blaring from her boombox.

Karen’s brother Colin said: “I just want to say a personal thank you to the kind people of Wellingborough for not just the kind messages on how Karen touched your hearts, but the comfort it gave us all through this sad time.

“I couldn’t believe the turn out you good people gave Karen, she would have been so proud and I know what she would be saying - ‘told you I was famous and number one.’

“Community spirit shone through and it made me proud to be born and bred in Wellingborough.”

One of those who turned out to pay her respects was Jane Richardson.

She said: “I remember once I sat next to her and spoke to her and she was a lovely woman.

“She was always so happy and I was sad to hear about her death.

“It’s great that so many people have come out to pay their respects.”

Doreen Tanner also joined several others who lined the streets.

She said: “People used to take the mick and be nasty but she never said anything back.

“She livened this town up no end.”

Mr Cooper has asked people to donate to the Young Minds Trust, which helps raise awareness of mental illnesses.

A fundraising page has been set up and has already raised more than £1,200. To donate, click here.