Kiveton Park crash: Balloon release, fireworks and motorbike procession mark funeral for Martin Ward, 18
Martin Ward, aged 18, from Swallownest, died alongside his friends, Ryan Geddes, 19, from Kiveton Park, and Mason Hall, also 19, from Woodhouse, when the car they were travelling in crashed into a tree near Kiveton Park, Rotherham, last month.
Martin’s funeral took place at Grenoside Crematorium, in Sheffield, on Monday, November 22.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdPhotos and videos shared by friends show the coffin engraved with his nickname ‘Wardy’ arriving in the hearse, and floral tributes in the shape of motorbikes and spelling out ‘son’, ‘brother’ and ‘grandson’.
They also show mourners releasing dozens of blue heart-shaped balloons, fireworks being let off in his memory, and a procession of motorbikes joining him on his final journey.
A truck decorated with a life-sized cut-out of the teenager and many other photos and tributes, alongside the words ‘RIP – Forever Loved’, can be seen too.
One friend wrote following the funeral: “You had the best send off, Mart. You would have been gassed. I know you’d be so proud of your how strong your family have actually been. Rest peacefully, Mart. You will be forever missed and never ever forgotten.”
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdAnother commented: “Goodnight sweetheart. We all love and miss you so so much. You will always live on through us all and live in our hearts. You had the best send off and we know you would have been proud. Till we meet again, Angel. Sleep tight in paradise.”
Ryan was laid to rest at Wales Church on November 18 and Mason’s funeral is due to be held at Rotherham Crematorium at 2pm on Monday, November 29.
A police investigation into the collision is ongoing and inquests into their deaths have been opened and adjourned.
Tragically, Martin's mother, Sara Jane Smith, died less than two weeks after his death.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdShe had been planning the former Aston Academy pupil’s funeral at the time, and had paid a heartfelt tribute to Ryan, saying he had ‘the biggest heart out of most people I know’.
Her funeral is due to take place on Monday, November 29 at midday at Babworth Crematorium.