EXCLUSIVE Motorcycle enthusiast John Dingwall never got to test out a Harley Davidson, his dream ride while he was alive, but his friends and family gave him the next best thing for his funeral
Biker John Dingwall takes a final ride in a special sidecar hearse beside his dream Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
The revhead, who died aged 68, always longed for a road trip on an iconic Road King, but never got the chance. But the married dad’s wish finally came true as his coffin was taken by the classic machine before he was laid to rest.
The carpenter, of South Shields, Tyneside, headed a procession of two-wheeled steel including more than 50 bikers. On the day, his brother Robert led the poignant convoy, which revved engines in unison until John entered the crematorium.
Wife Louise said: “John’s last ride was exactly what he would have wanted.
“He lived his life in the saddle and now he’s taken one last ride on his dream bike.”
She thanked Co-op Funeralcare South Shields for organising what she described as “such a fitting tribute”.
Louise added: “We were all so impressed by the motorbike hearse, which allowed John to be surrounded by his family, friends and fellow riders.”
John was introduced to motorbikes by Louise and quickly became an “avid biker” – even learning how to build the machines and gaining a welding qualification from South Tyneside College, where he was able to meet up for lunch with daughter Chloe who was also studying there.
His craftmanship saw him build more than 100 motorcycles and a number of teardrop trailers.
He rode a string of bikes, including makes such as Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki, but always dreamed of taking a Harley for a spin.
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John was awarded a string of medals at biking rallies and raised vital funds for air ambulance services and children’s charities.
As a keen supporter of veterans, he rode out to Bents Park in South Shields to mark Armed Forces Day celebrations.
Louise said: “John always showed up to support those who needed it.”
Co-op Funeralcare arranger Sophie Alderson said: “We were determined to give John a chance to ride his dream bike, the Harley Davidson Road King, so David Nye, funeral director here at Co-op Funeralcare South Shields, got in touch with Motorcycle Funerals, who supplied a specially-fitted custom hearse sidecar, which truly honoured John’s passion for the open road.”