Steven Huntley's cortege followed by 40 Swift vehicles

Swift Couriers in motorcade to give Steven Huntley a fitting send-off

NEWBURY businessman Steven Huntley was given a fond farewell by friends and colleagues when a motorcade of 40 vehicles from Swift Couriers joined his cortege through the town on Saturday.

Mr Huntley was a major shareholder in the Newbury-based logistics company, Swift Couriers and his hearse was escorted from its headquarters in Hambridge Lane to the West Berkshire Crematorium in Thatcham by the company's vans, lorries and motorcycles.

One of the trucks had the words ‘R.I.P. Steve' displayed on the back and the company has indicated it will remain there permanently.

The managing director of Swift Couriers, Adrian Smith, said: “The outpouring of respect from people on the road was touching.

“We hope it didn't cause too much disruption, but we wanted to pay our respects.

“The funeral was the largest I have ever seen, there were about 220 people inside the crematorium and a further 150 outside.”

Readings at the service were given by Mr Huntley's partner, Louise Purton and by a close family friend, Ian Campbell.

Prayers, which had been selected and written by his children, were read in the service.

The family has asked that donations be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Mr Smith said: “It was a very emotional day. There were a lot of laughs and a few tears, it was really, really fitting of the vivacious way Steve lived his life.”

The ashes will be buried with Mr Huntley's father during a private family ceremony at an undisclosed location.

Mr Smith said that Mr Huntley held the role of Chairman of the Group and had taken a back seat in the running of the business over the past few years. He said that though Mr Huntley will be sadly missed, the continuation of the business will be a priority.

Mr Huntley died following an accident on the Newbury Road at East Shefford on Friday, March 11.

A 39-year-old man, who has not been named, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He has not been charged and has been bailed until May 3.