The graveyard: the day after: Police are to protect the Best family grave and others nearby at Roselawn Cemetery in the coming months, writes Dan Keenan.
The guard was placed amid concerns that some fans would damage the plot or those adjoining it in the graveyard, which is almost full.
Football fans arrived steadily yesterday to place yet more flowers and football scarves on the grave where George Best was buried privately on Saturday.
Access to the plot was not restricted, although some areas were roped off to protect neighbouring family graves.
Cemetery staff, clearly expecting a stream of mourners, had allocated places for floral tributes from fans, politicians, sporting figures and celebrities.
Other staff were in place to help maintain the solemnity of the graveyard as the slow pilgrimage of fans got under way.
Wreaths from the Best family are in place at the grave, including a simple note from Dickie Best, the star's 87-year-old father. "Fond memories, Dad," said Best senior in his tribute.
Calum, Best's son, wrote: "Dear Bestie. I miss and love you so much. I know you will always be watching over me. Rest in peace Dad, I love you. Yours proudly, Calum."
Best's friend and agent Phil Hughes, who accompanied the coffin on the return to Belfast on Friday, wrote: "Dear George, You made me feel special. You changed my life. Nothing will ever give me so much pride. Your best pal, Phil."
Floral tributes, wreathes and cards from celebrities, sportsmen and entertainers have also been placed at the graveside.
Flowers from Elton John, a football fan and former chairman and director of Watford Football Club, wrote: "Thanks for the memories. You were the Mozart of Football. Elton."
A bouquet from actress Susan George, who was Best's girlfriend in the early 1970s said: "I will remember you with a smile. God Bless."
Actor Mickey Rourke's message was a simple "Cheers George".
Alex Higgins wrote: "To George, with love."
There were also tributes from both the British and Irish governments, as well as from football clubs throughout Britain.
Pressure is expected to build for a permanent memorial for the soccer star, which would protect the Best family plot from "shrine status".
Throughout last week, television and radio shows relayed public demand for a memorial to be built, probably at Belfast City Hall.
Belfast City Airport could be renamed, and the North's sports minister, David Hanson, has already said the government is considering incorporating a Best memorial into the planned £55 million (€81.25 million) sports stadium.