LEGENDARY wrestler Giant Haystacks was laid to rest yesterday, after losing a two year fight against cancer.

The man-mountain was buried at Agecroft cemetery, following a packed service at Our Lady of Dolours Roman Catholic Church in Kersal, Salford.

Ten pallbearers, including his sons Martin, Noel and Stephen carried the huge casket containing the 24-stone wrestler.

His widow Rita, 50, was joined by more than 500 mourners who came to pay their respects to the 52-year-old star, who died at his home on Bland Road, Prestwich, on Sunday.

In his heyday in the late 70s and 80s, Haystacks, real name Martin Ruane, ruled the ring and counted the Queen Mother and Sir Paul McCartney among his fans. He was known for his epic clashes with rival wrestler Big Daddy, who died earlier this year.

But as the illness took over, his weight dropped from 50st to 24st. Extensive chemotherapy also stripped him of his mane of hair and beard.

Outside the ring, the 7ft tall giant was a gentle, devout Catholic, who read philosophy. His wife Rita, who has also battled against cancer, said: "We met in our teens and he was my one and only love. I will miss him terribly."

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