George Michael laid to rest in Highgate cemetery in London

George Michael’s funeral took place in London on Wednesday, when he was buried near his mother, Lesley, in Highgate cemetery in north London.

Michael’s spokesperson released a statement confirming the funeral had taken place: “Family and close friends gathered for the small, private ceremony to say goodbye to their beloved son, brother and friend.

“George Michael’s family would like to thank his fans across the world for their many messages of love and support. We ask that the family’s wish for privacy be respected so that they can continue to live their lives privately, away from any media intrusion. No further details will be released.”

The date of the funeral had been kept secret to avoid fans attending in large numbers.

Earlier this month Darren Salter, senior coroner for Oxfordshire, confirmed that the singer had died of natural causes. Michael passed away at home in Goring in Oxfordshire on Christmas Day.

“Inquiries into the death of George Michael have been concluded and the final postmortem report received,” Salter said in a statement.

“As there is a confirmed natural cause of death, being dilated cardiomyopathy with myocarditis and fatty liver, the investigation is being discontinued and there is no need for an inquest or any further inquiries. No further updates will be provided and the family requests the media and public respect their privacy.”