Thousands applaud Berlusconi at send-off as day of mourning divides Italy

Supporters wave flags outside Milan Cathedral but critics says ex-prime minister should not be ‘beatified’

Silvio Berlusconi has been given the privilege of a state send-off at Milan’s imposing cathedral in a ceremony that drew thousands of mourners to a square outside but appalled critics of the scandal-tainted former Italian prime minister.

Supporters waved Italian flags with Forza Italia – the name of the party he founded in 1994 – written on them and, in reference to his long association with AC Milan football club, chanted: “There’s only one president.”