For Douglas

Hundreds of bikers paid tribute to a teenage motorbike fan on Friday.

They rallied after an appeal was put out to lead a funeral cortege in honour of 16-yearold Douglas Barclay.

The teenager, a pupil of Airdrie’s Mavisbank School, was profoundly disabled and suffered from West Syndrome since birth. Douglas was able to save three other lives after his organs were donated following his death.

Riders made the emotional journey escorting the youngster to Holytown Crematorium, with his heartbroken uncle Craig Morris riding up front.

The cortege was met at the crematorium with other bike enthusiasts, who were waiting to provide a guard of honour.

The funeral procession was prompted after Craig made an emotional online appeal to fellow bikers to help give his nephew a send-off that he would have loved.

He wrote on Facebook: “I can’t put it in to words as I lost my nephew Douglas on February 8. I am asking for any biker available on February 16 to escort my nephew as he loved his uncle Craig’s motorbike.

“This would make his world. This wee man donated his organs to save another three lives. We shall be leaving Scotia Street, Motherwell, at 9.30am heading to Holytown Crematorium. Thank you from all his family if you can attend.”

Craig’s post went viral and bikers from across the world sent messages of support, while others vowed to be there on the day.

The teenager’s family is also fundraising for Mavisbank School and Barnardo’s.

Go to www. justgiving. com/crowdfunding/ douglas bar clay memorial fund? if you would like to donate.

Farewell Hundreds of bikers turned up to pay their respects to Douglas Barclay