2,000 of Margaret Thatcher's friends, family and politicians are paying their final respects to the first female British Prime Minister. Her funeral service has taken place at St. Paul's Cathedral in London with full military honours.

Queen Elizabeth II was among those who attended this morning.

During his address the Bishop of London told the congregation that today was not the time for political debate but rather a day for human compassion.

Mrs. Thatcher's grand-daughter Amanda gave a reading as did David Cameron.

Thousands lined the funeral route from the Palace of Westminster with many breaking into applause as the coffin passed.

Bells rang out as her coffin left the cathedral after the service. And there was a warm response from the waiting crowds.

The funeral procession is making its way to a London crematorium where a private ceremony will take place this evening.

However many protesters opposed to her policies turned their backs on the cortege and booed.