The funeral for IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon has been held in St Petersburg, Florida.

The Englishman died after he was involved in a 15-car crash at a race in Las Vegas last Sunday.

"Although the last few days have been unbearable for our family, the overwhelming love and support we have received are rays of sunshine during these dark days," said his wife, Susie.

"The outpouring of sympathy and condolences has been so comforting and I want to thank everyone for their kind notes, letters, gifts and flowers."

Hundreds of people from the surrounding community attended the service along with Wheldon's fellow racing drivers.