Dean Matthews' funeral procession passes Stadium of Light as hundreds of mourners turn out to say their final goodbyes

The lifelong Sunderland fan died on Thursday, November 12, after testing positive for Covid-19, leaving the city devastated at the loss of such an ‘exceptional’ photographer.

Dean was well known for capturing stunning photos of Sunderland and the North East landscapes.

His loss sparked an outpouring of tributes from organisations, businesses and followers of his work, with fellow photographers raising funds to support his family with a memorial calendar and to buy a bench on Sunderland’s seafront in his memory.

His daughter Megan also pledged to get more of the sold-out 2021 calendars of his images printed, so people can continue to have a keepsake.

Mourners gathered outside the Sunderland football ground on Friday morning, November 27, to say their final goodbyes as they applauded the ‘amazing’ dad.

Posting on the photographer’s Facebook page, his family said: “On Friday, November 27, at 10am Dean will be making his final journey around the Sunderland Stadium of Light.

"A place where he was loved and respected by many and also captured life long memories for a lot of people.

“We would love to see as many people as possible lining the walkways of the stadium to give dad the farewell he deserves.”

A minute's silence was held in honour of Dean and Hays Travel boss John Hays, who died a day after Dean, at Sunderland AFC’s match against MK Dons at the stadium on Saturday, November 14.

In a touching tribute, Sunderland AFC said: “We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Dean Matthews. A regular at the Stadium of Light and an exceptional photographer, Dean always captured our club and our city at its very best. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. Rest in peace, Dean.”

With thousands of followers on social media, Dean’s photos had been shared worldwide, as he captured the region’s landmarks and landscape for others to enjoy.

More than £3,500 has been raised for a memorial bench with all additional funds going to Dean’s family.

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