THE son of Dr Ian Paisley has branded critics of his father "pygmies in his shadow".

He said his father and the wider family had been hurt by the way some in the Free Presbyterian Church, which he founded, and in politics allegedly took him for granted.

Dr Paisley, the former Northern Ireland First Minister and Democratic Unionist Party leader died aged 88 on Friday. His private funeral was held at his Belfast home on Monday.

Ian Paisley Jnr said: "None of his detractors can take anything away from him. His critics appear as pygmies in his shadow.

"It is without doubt Ian Paisley has ensured Ulster's place in the Union."

He quoted famous 20th century Unionist Edward Carson, talking about a friend who used him.

The North Antrim MP said: "Dad, indeed all of us, were hurt by the way some in the church and in political life treated him - indeed, even took him for granted.

"I am often reminded of Lord Carson's speech (in) the House of Lords, about one of his erstwhile friends, when he recounted he had been 'used as a ladder, only to be kicked away at a convenient moment'.

"I know that many, who wouldn't even be in politics or the church today, stand accused of that."

A public memorial service for Dr Paisley will be held later in the year, the family has said.