Daily Mirror: CHRIS HUGHES

PUNK legend Joe Strummer was laid to rest yesterday - a rebel to the last.

A stetson sat on top of The Clash frontman's coffin, adorned with stickers proclaiming "Question Authority. Ask Me Anything" and "Vinyl Rules".

Two dozen fully uniformed firemen stood to attention as the funeral cortege arrived at the West London Crematorium.

Joe, whose London Calling was named album of the 80s, did benefit gigs for the Fire Brigades Union during its pay dispute.

One fireman, from Acton, said: "We are here to thank Joe for all he did for us." Music and showbusiness stars also joined his widow Lucinda and three daughters to pay their last respects to the star, who died of a heart attack nine days ago aged 50 at his home near Taunton, Somerset.

They included former Clash colleagues Mick Jones and Paul Simonon, Fine Young Cannibals frontman Roland Gift, DJ Fat Boy Slim, actor Keith Allen, DJ Andy Kershaw and comic Mark Lamarr.

Kershaw said: "This man formed the musical beliefs of generations of musical fans. Joe was a brilliant man."

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REBEL: Idol Joe; DEFIANT: Messages on Strummer's coffin as he was cremated yesterday; Picture: JASON SHILLINGFORD