The location of Michael Jackson's body remains a mystery today following the star's public memorial service in Los Angeles yesterday.

Jackson's coffin was put on display during the ceremony at the Staples Center, but was not seen leaving the venue following the service.

Reports claim the body has been taken to a secret location ahead of a final funeral. Until yesterday, Jackson's body had been kept at the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Hollywood.

According to US media reports, Jackson's death certificate listed the cemetery as a “temporary” location for Jackson's body.

The claims have furthered speculation that the singer could be laid to rest at his former Neverland home in Santa Barbara, California.

The ranch, which the singer was forced to give up due to financial difficulties last year, was originally earmarked as the location for yesterday's public memorial.

But the event was switched to the Staples Center following reported planning concerns.

Since Jackson's death there have been widespread calls from his fans for Neverland to be converted into a shrine to the star, similar to Elvis Presley's Graceland home in Memphis.

However, the mayor of Gary, Indiana – Jackson's birthplace – has also expressed desire for the star to be buried there.

Stars from stage and screen, including Stevie Wonder and Brooke Shields, paid tribute to Jackson during a moving service yesterday.

(by Jason Gregory)