THOUSANDS of Rangers fans have gathered outside Ibrox Stadium today as they get set to bid farewell to legendary manager Walter Smith.
The funeral cortege of the former Light Blues boss, who died at the age of 73 last week, will pass the Govan team's home ground before a private ceremony for his family. He will then be remembered in a public memorial at Glasgow Cathedral later this month.
WATCH: Walter Smith passes Ibrox for one last time as thousands see off legendary Rangers boss
People of all ages have turned out to pay their final respects to Smith with scarves, flags, and banners left on the streets outside the stadium. The procession is due to pass Ibrox at around 3.15pm, driving in the direction of Paisley Road West, before heading to rejoin the motorway.
As we have told previously, Smith's passing was met with widespread grief from across the world with Nicola Sturgeon, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Pep Guardiola among those to pay tribute to the legendary manager.
Hailed as the "embodiment of a Ranger" by the club's chairman Douglas Park, Smith secured 21 titles across two spells at Ibrox and took the club to the 2008 UEFA Cup final.
Park said last week: "On behalf of the Rangers board of directors, staff and players, I convey my deep condolences to the Smith family.
"Walter leaves behind a wife, children and grandchildren, all of whom are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
"It is almost impossible to encapsulate what Walter meant to every one of us at Rangers.
"He embodied everything that a Ranger should be. His character and leadership was second to none, and will live long in the memory of everyone he worked with during his two terms as first-team manager.
Walter Smith funeral: Rangers fans gather at Ibrox today for cortège
"I spoke with Walter as recently as last weekend. Even when he was battling illness, he was still able to provide advice and support. For that, I am personally grateful.
"I know that he continued also to maintain dialogue with senior members of staff, including our manager, Steven Gerrard.
"Walter will be sorely missed by all of us at Rangers."
Smith is survived by his wife Ethel, theri sons, and their grandchildren.
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