The Vivienne's funeral in pictures as Steps star and Kim Woodburn lead mourners

Dancing on Ice: Holly Willoughby pays tribute to The Vivienne

The funeral of Drag Race UK champion The Vivienne has begun to see the arrival of mourners including Steps singer Ian 'H' Watkins and television personality Kim Woodburn.

The service for the television star, whose real name was James Lee Williams, is taking place at a church in Denbighshire, North Wales. The drag icon, who catapulted to fame after clinching the first series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK, tragically passed away earlier this month at the tender age of 32.

On January 5, a representative for the star confirmed the devastating news on social media. They stated: "It is with immense sadness that we let you know our beloved James Lee Williams - The Vivienne, has passed this weekend."

"James was an incredibly loved, warm- hearted and amazing person. Their family are heartbroken at the loss of their son, brother and uncle. They are so proud of the wonderful things James achieved in their life and career. We will not be releasing any further details. We please ask that James's family are given the time and privacy they now need to process and grieve."

Today, the much-admired drag star will be laid to rest, with several celebrities attending to bid their final farewells. Steps singer Watkins, donned in a red tartan suit, was seen approaching the church alongside comedian Jayde Adams, who sported a vibrant green coat and trilby hat.

Mourners attended a Denbighshire church (Image: PA)

Celebrity Big Brother star, Kim Woodburn, was also present.

In a departure from the traditional black attire typically seen at funerals, mourners chose to don their most vibrant outfits in honour of the colourful character that The Vivienne was.

Williams catapulted into the limelight after clinching victory in the inaugural series of RuPaul's Drag Race UK. They later competed in the seventh season of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars in 2022 and secured third place on Dancing On Ice in 2023.

Mourners wore bright colours instead of black (Image: PA)

Earlier this month, an emotional vigil was held in Liverpool, with friends of The Vivienne paying heartfelt tributes. St George's Hall was awash with green light as friends and fans congregated to remember the star, a tribute to her portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard Of Oz musical.

Fellow drag queen Danny Beard spoke passionately about the immense love for The Vivienne at RuPaul's Drag Con, stating: "I think this is what tonight should be about... A celebration of someone who touched the lives of so many."

They hailed The Vivienne as one of the world's most recognisable drag queens and a "proper world class entertainer."

A horse-drawn carriage was seen carrying The Vivienne's coffin (Image: PA)

They added: "And above all a shining beacon in all of our lives and especially for the LGBT (community)."

They lauded her for utilising her platform to spread joy, advocate for acceptance, challenge stereotypes and to be a voice for those who need it.

One friend fondly recalled The Vivienne as a "legend" who was "always willing to experiment and push the boundaries of fashion, makeup and, of course, drag". Footage from the memorial captured the poignant moment dozens of balloons were released into the sky, accompanied by the song 'For Good' from the musical Wicked.

Kim Woodburn was also in attendance (Image: PA)

The Vivienne, who secured third place on Dancing On Ice in 2023, was remembered on the ice-skating programme as the latest season kicked off earlier this month.

TV presenter Holly Willoughby paid her respects, stating: "Many of you will have been saddened by the tragic news of The Vivienne's passing last weekend. Now, they were a huge part of our show, making it all the way to the final in 2023. They'll be very sorely missed, and our thoughts are with The Vivienne's loved ones at this time. So sad."

Back in 2019, The Vivienne disclosed that their stage name was a nod to the legendary fashion designer, saying: "I love Vivienne Westwood and when I moved to Liverpool everyone used to call me Vivienne as I was head to toe in Westwood."

A close friend of the drag icon revealed that their father and stepmother discovered them deceased. Police have confirmed that they responded to a sudden death report at an address in Chorlton-by-Backford, near Chester.

The spokesperson revealed: "Police attended, investigated the circumstances of the death of the 32-year-old man and concluded there were no suspicious circumstances. A file will be prepared for the coroner."

The tragic news of The Vivienne's passing was confirmed by their publicist and friend Simon Jones.

Steps star Ian 'H' Watkins was seen at the funeral (Image: PA)

A source disclosed to the Sun: "Their devastated dad raised the alarm and believed they had passed away a day or two before being found," adding that "James was due to move to a £400,000 house next week, and had a holiday lined up. They were planning a tour and really had everything to live for."

Following the loss of The Drag Race UK icon, their representative shared a poignant tribute, expressing how "proud" he was of The Vivienne and reflecting on their profound connection.

"These are words I never ever wanted to write. Viv was a close friend, a client and someone I loved very much. From the moment I met them in 2019 I knew we could create magic together and I became their manager. Their talent was immense and the light they brought to every room was astonishing. No-one has ever made me laugh in my life as much as Viv did. Their comic genius and quick wit was like no other."

"I'm so proud and lucky that Viv was such a big part of my life every day for the last 5 years. It's tragic that their career was only just beginning. In musical theatre Viv had found a space and career they loved, excelled and thrived in. I am heartbroken and devastated at this news. RIP my wonderful friend. You left us way too soon," penned the grieving agent.

The Vivienne made their final curtain call a mere week before their untimely departure, showcasing their talents in Blackpool with a role in the celebrated West End production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as The Childcatcher.