A part-time firefighter who died in a motorcycle accident is to get a full service funeral.

Ashley Butcher, 22, of Weeley Road, Little Clacton, was taken to Colchester General Hospital by ambulance following the crash on the old A133 Clacton Road, Weeley Heath, on Friday afternoon.

The father - who had a young son, Jack, and partner, Kelly - died shortly afterwards.

A spokeswoman for Essex Fire Service said the funeral would take place at Weeley Crematorium on Tuesday - the first day of the fire strike.

It is expected there will be a large turnout of colleagues.

"Ashley's coffin will be taken on board an antique ladder platform, along with the bearers, who will escort it the whole way to Weeley Crematorium from Weeley fire station, where he served," she said.

"When they reach the crematorium, there will be a guard of honour."

The cortege will leave the station at 3pm and is due to arrive at the crematorium at 3.15pm.

Mr Butcher's parents, Martin and Elaine, have asked for family flowers only.

Published Wednesday October 23, 2002

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