Little Boy Blue viewers couldn’t hold back the tears during episode two’s funeral scene

Viewers of ITV’s Little Boy Blue were left without dry eyes again after episode two of the true-life drama portrayed the funeral of 11-year-old murder victim Rhys Jones.

The episode showed the boy’s small coffin – coloured blue for his favourite team, Everton – as it was carried into Liverpool Anglican Cathedral by four pallbearers dressed in football shirts.

In particular, those watching shed a tear over the poem delivered at the service by Rhys’ dad.

And some thought the drama held a powerful lesson for any young people watching.

Every teenager should be made to watch #littleboyblue to see the devastating impact of gangs and guns. Heartbreaking.

— Siân Isaac (@Genghis_Sian) May 1, 2017

Others were keen to applaud the cast for their moving performances in Monday night’s episode.

Little Boy Blue was truly moving again tonight. Acted by a brilliant cast. RIP Rhys #LittleBoyBlue #Liverpool

— Spice Girls (@SpiceGirlsNet) May 1, 2017

Such a strong cast telling Reece's story. Stellar work from all cast and crew! #littleboyblue

— Lewis Bray (@lewisbray) May 1, 2017

Especially young actors Paddy Rowan (who plays gang member Sean Mercer), Nathan Clark Smith (Jordan Olssen) and Michael Moran (Kevin Moody).

for such young actors, playing the parts of Sean, Jordan and Kevin. Their performances are amazing. hope they go far #littleboyblue

— jodie portugal (@JodiePortugal) May 1, 2017

And despite the tears, the drama’s not over yet: there are still two more episodes of this real-life harrowing tale left to air.

Little Boy Blue continues Monday at 9pm on ITV