DOZENS of bikers followed a horse-drawn carriage to an Old Town church for the funeral of a much-missed grandfather who died in an accident on the A419.
More than 40 motorcycles took part in a procession which led from Mike Allen's home in Thorney Park to Christ Church because they wanted to pay their respects to their dear friend and give him the grand send-off he deserved.
A horse-drawn carriage adorned with flowers reading HUSBAND, DAD, GRANDAD and M+R carried the 41-year-old's coffin, which featured family photos on each side and had a motorcycle helmet made of flowers resting on top.
His neighbours applauded as the convoy of horses, cars and motorbikes began its journey, led by staff from Hilliers, with the bikes at the back of the procession so as to not scare the horses.
Onlookers in Old Town heard the revving engines and stopped in their tracks to watch the vehicles arrive over the crest of the hill and bowed their heads in solemn respect.
After the service, emotional mourners gathered at the Wroughton Working Men's Club for a wake.
Mike died in an accident on the A419 after he came off his bike near Blunsdon on July 7.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years Rachel, his 21-year-old son Thomas, 15-year-old daughter Isabelle, 10-year-old son Joseph, and a young granddaughter.
His mother-in-law Madeline Thomas explained the procession was made up of bikers because Mike was a member of the Swindon Bikers Group, while the horses were included because he used to go to horse shows with his daughter and her horse.
She told the Adver: "He was an absolutely fantastic, hardworking, kindhearted, well-liked and clever man who was very dedicated to his family.
"There was a big turnout for his funeral because he's very highly thought of as a wonderful husband, son-in-law, father, and friend to so many.
"I don't know how we will cope without him."
Earlier this month, 156 members of the Swindon Bikers Group drove from Greenbridge Retail Park to the County Ground to let off balloons, rev their engines and applaud in tribute to the Bridgmead Fish Brothers service manager who often rode a Honda CBR 600f with them.
At the time, his son Thomas Allen said: “I wish everybody to stay safe and keep their families close. Rest in peace dad - I love you forever.”
To donate to a fundraiser for the family, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/marc-adair-2?utm_term=229Eww4Xq
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article