Cycle clubmates in guard of honour for tragic Gavin
THIS was the moving scene as hundreds of cyclists formed a poignant cortege for a man killed in a horror crash.
Gavin Moore passed away last Tuesday after the collision with a car near Conlig, Co Down. The 40-year-old, who had been cycling with friends at the time of the incident, was a popular member of North Down Cycling Club.
On Saturday riders from a number of clubs travelled to attend his funeral and to celebrate the life of the much-loved and respected Bangor man.
Former clubmates made their way to the funeral service at Hamilton Road Presbyterian Church in the town. Afterwards they cycled to Clandeboye Cemetery, where Gavin was laid to rest in his pink and black club colours.
In an online post Gavin’s heartbroken partner Joanne said he “would have loved” the tribute. She added: “What a lovely thought and thing to do. Seriously, I can’t thank you enough. You guys make me proud and make me understand why Gavin loved North Down Cycling Club so much.”
Scott Armstrong, a friend of Mr Moore, said it was a fitting tribute. “On behalf of the committee I’d like to thank everyone who turned up to pay their respects to Gavin. I was truly speechless at the turnout from across the cycling community.”
Respects were also paid at the funeral by Belfast City Airport staff, who knew Gavin from his work as an aircraft refueller. Mr Moore was also a supporter of Bangor Rugby Club. In a statement the club said: “Gav was always at the club on match days with Jo, supporting the boys in big games, and they always supported our fundraising events to the max. The whole club’s thoughts are with Gavin’s entire family.”
Mr Moore was among a small group of cyclists struck by a vehicle at around 1.50pm last Tuesday on the Bangor-bound carriageway at Conlig. Two other clubmembers,GarethBoyleand Keith Freel, were injured.
A 59-year-old man was arrested at the scene and was released on police bail.