Alfie Gray smiling at the camera with a suit and tie on — Image caption,

Alfie’s friends at the funeral told the BBC he had a ‘contagious smile’

Scott Ellis & Leigh Boobyer

BBC News, West of England

About 100 bikers turned out to commemorate a teenage boy who died in a crash.

Alfie Gray, 18, was killed in a collision on the A370 near Hewish, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, last month on his way home from work.

A ride along Weston’s seafront was held on Thursday before a funeral service, which was attended by Alfie’s family and friends.

Mark Threadgold, a member of the motorbike group Alfie was in, said: “I’ll never forget his smile, I’ll never forget him towering above everyone being really joyful and happy.”

A man was arrested for causing death by dangerous driving and later released under investigation after the incident on 10 September at about 22:20 BST.

The road was closed in both directions between the M5 Junction 21 roundabout and Congresbury for more than 12 hours.

His friends are now planning motorbike gatherings where they all used to meet.

They also hope to organise charity events linked to road safety, and a Christmas drive delivering toys for children in hospital in Alfie’s honour.

Image caption,

Mark Threadgold said Alfie ‘always had a big smile on his face’

Mr Threadgold continued: “He just made everyone so happy. He had this aura about him, it lightened the room when he appeared.

“It’s such a tragedy the group and everyone has lost him.

“His contagious smile is what I’ll remember him for.”

Image caption,

Summah Harvey said she used to watch Alfie learn how to ride his motorbike

Summah Harvey, Alfie’s friend, said: “I love Alfie so much. He was very intimidating when I first met him, but that smile on his face, it was instantly so warming. It made you feel welcome.”