David Gest’s ashes scattered in York

David Gest’s ashes were scattered in York on Friday (27.05.16).

The late star – who tragically passed away in his London hotel room in April at the age of 62 – was given a fitting farewell by 20 or so of his closest family and friends when they scattered his ashes from the top of historical site Clifford’s Tower.

Imad Handi, a close friend of David’s, said: "He said that in his estate if he passed away he just wanted somewhere nice in York. We decided it was a peaceful place. He found York very peaceful. From when he came to England he loved York, we’re going back to 2006 when he first visited York.

"David was very educated and he loved history – he loved the buildings in York. He felt comfortable there. He loved the quirky little shops and the hog roast. He found the people of York so warm and welcoming."

At the short ceremony, family – including David’s sister Barbara Gerber – and friends helped to release white doves and balloons in memory of the late producer.

David was cremated at Golders Green crematorium in London last month.

Of that farewell, Imad added to the York Press: "It was very emotional and we had quite a few people come down from York. He had friends from all walks of life, not celebrities or millionaires, just normal people he had made friends with. They were true friends."

And the owners of Clifford’s Tower were only happy to let the ceremony take place for David, who they described as "an adopted son of York".

A spokesperson for English Heritage said: "We were approached by David Gest’s family who asked if they could scatter his ashes from the top of Clifford’s Tower in a small, private memorial. As he was an adopted son of York, we thought it an appropriate thing to do for his family."