Friends and family pay last respects to Pinter

Family and close friends of Nobel prize-winning playwright Harold Pinter gathered to say farewell at an intimate funeral today.

Around 50 people stood under a tree in a north-west London cemetery for the writer’s private burial.

Poems were read during the 15 minute ceremony in accordance with his wishes.

Pinter died on Christmas Eve aged 78 after a long battle with cancer.

Relatives, including his second wife Antonia Fraser – who was dressed in a white hat and black outfit – were joined by friends from the world of drama at the ceremony in Kensal Green Cemetery.

Actor Michael Gambon read a passage from Pinter’s play 'No Man’s Land' which the writer had asked him to do three months ago.

Playwright Tom Stoppard was also among the guests.