More than 300 people paid their respects to a firefighter who was killed in a motorcycle accident

At the full fire service funeral at Weeley Crematorium, fellow fire crew from stations across Essex paid tribute to Ashley Butcher, 22, including chief fire officer David Turner.

Also in the congregation was Ashley's one-year-old son, Jack, and partner Kelly

After the short journey from the retained village station, a lone piper took his place ahead of the 44-year-old turntable ladder, its blue lights flashing, which bore his coffin.

It was draped in a Union flag, while his firefighter's yellow helmet sat on top. And either side, two colleagues stood ready to bear to his final resting place.

Behind, others followed in the machine from Weeley.

The cortege were met by a guard of honour, made up of more than 40 firefighters.

As they were called to attention, three light aircraft - a tribute to Ashley's love of flying - flew over the crematorium yesterday in tribute.

With no room left inside, more than a 100 people listened to the service led by the Rev Roy Thompson clustered around the door.

Ashley, of Weeley Road, Little Clacton, died in hospital after the crash on October 18 on the old A133 Clacton Road at Weeley Heath.

With the tributes and recollections came a plea to fellow motorcyclists from his uncle John Gatward who underlined the unbearable grief the unexpected death had put the family through.

He said: "So if you have got a motorbike ride it safely - please please be careful."

Published Wednesday October 30, 2002

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette