A vigil was held on Thursday at the Universal Funeral Parlour in Hung Hom for firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who died while tackling last month's deadly blaze at Tai Po's Wang Fuk Court.

In the centre of the mourning hall, a plaque read “a noble spirit shall never perish”.

Floral tributes lined the entrance, with condolence cards taped to the wall expressing gratitude to the senior fireman.

Among those who attended the vigil were Chief Executive John Lee as well as other senior government officials, such as Chief Secretary Eric Chan and security chief Chris Tang. Former chief executives CY Leung and Donald Tsang were also present to pay their final respect.

On Friday, the Fire Services Department will hold a funeral with the highest honours for the fallen firefighter.

Afterwards, his colleagues and government officials will parade outside the funeral home as the hearse departs for Wang Fuk Court.

After a ceremony at the estate, the hearse will then proceed to Sha Tin Fire Station where the firefighter was based.

Fire Services chief Andy Yeung will lead a final tribute there before the cortège goes on to Gallant Garden in Wo Hop Shek Cemetery for the burial service.