THE funeral of Saints legend Ted Bates is being held tomorrow.

It takes place at St Mary's Church at 11am, followed by a private committal.

The church seats 500 and there could be a tannoy system in place to relay the service to Saints fans wanting to attend but who might not be able to sit down inside.

There will be readings from Saints chairman Rupert Lowe and Dell legend Mike Channon, one of hundreds of players signed by Bates during his management period which spanned 1955-1973.

Bates died almost a fortnight ago aged 85 - ending 66 years of unbroken service to Saints.

The service will be conducted by the Rev Ian Johnson, rector of the City of Southampton parish and also Saints' official club chaplain.

Last week 100 per cent of callers to an Echo phone poll said Saints should erect a statue at St Mary's in honour of Ted Bates, below.

Saints fan Chris Newman, from Midanbury, has contacted the Echo to say: "I'm certainly not against the idea of a statue in Ted's honour but certain questions need answering.

"If it were to stand outside the ground, where would it go so as to be a focal point, yet not an obstruction?

"Then there are the mindless breed, sadly again in evidence in the cup derby. I wouldn't put it past a certain low mentality to set out to sabotage or deface what would be a fitting monument which should be respected and cherished.

"This could be avoided altogether by having a bronze statue or bust standing inside the reception area out of harm's way.

"A large painting is the best way of honouring Ted. Why copy everyone else?

"Let's offer something a little different and unique. SFC should take this idea on board and commission an artist to carry this out.

"There was recently a brilliant photo in the Echo of both Ted and Lawrie McMenemy both holding the FA Cup.

"A painting worked around this and hanging prominently in the club reception area for all to see would be quite magnificent and a highly suitable and befitting tribute to two men who worked closely together with great respect for each other.

The tribute would therefore be to a great Saint still gladly with us, and one to the irreplaceable Ted Bates - now sadly departed but never, ever forgotten."