TRAFFIC came to a standstill as family, firefighters and motorcyclists combined to say a last farewell to a much-loved fireman.


They were among more than 500 mourners who paid their last respects to 44-year-old Dave Standing at his funeral last Thursday.


Father-of-two Mr Standing, known as Stanny, of Russell Street, Accrington, was killed while riding his Suzuki GSXR on a country road near Lancaster three weeks ago.


The funeral procession to Accr-ington Crematorium was headed by a fire engine in front of a black sidecar carrying the coffin, which was followed by a parade of 30 motorbikers.


Family and friends who walked the entire route were met by 60 Hyndburn fire officers dressed in full uniform.


Police stopped traffic on Hyndburn Road as the procession paused at the fire station for three minutes as a final mark of respect.
Several displays of flowers adorned the coffin as it was taken into the chapel, including one in the shape of a fire engine and one wreath spelling the word Dad. Mr Standing leaves children Lee, 18, and Rebecca, 15.


A fireman's yellow helmet was also laid on top of the casket.


The chapel was packed for the service, forcing many mourners to listen outside where it was relayed by loudspeakers.


One friend was dressed in a Blackburn Rovers kit as Mr Standing was a loyal fan.


The hour-long service included music by his favourite bands, Judas Priest, Black Sabbath and Montrose.


Tributes were led by Hyndburn Fire Station manager Ian Potter, who said: "Dave was the most helpful person you could ever hope to meet. Compensation for the loss of Dave is the joy of having known him. He was unique."


Blue Watch manager Peter Frazer told the mourners: "In local terms, Dave was a right good lad. I will always remember his infectious laugh.''


His sister, Christine Whittaker, 49, told the Observer earlier this month: "He was always up for a laugh and could never sit still. Dave loved being a fireman."


Mr Standing had worked for Hyndburn Fire Service for six years, as a member of Blue Watch, having formerly served in Rawtenstall for 10 years.


He was a keen motorcyclist who, although not formally a member, attended many events organised by the Accrington Motorcycle Club.


He also leaves his partner of three years, Zoe Whalley, her children Cameron, 14, and Jayden, six, an older brother Roy, older sister Denise and his stepfather Harry.