TEENAGE sailor Michael Walker, killed in an accident as he cycled along Poole’s Holes Bay Road, has departed on his final voyage.

Hundreds of mourners packed out Corfe Mullen’s St Nicholas Church, yesterday, to pay their last respects to the popular 17-year-old, who was described by friends as the ‘heart’ of Poole Yacht Club.

Indeed, flags have remained at half-mast at the club in Hamworthy ever since news of the tragic accident emerged.

Such was his love of sailing, Michael’s coffin, adorned with photos of him on the water, was transported to the church on the back of a RIB, organised by members of the club where he’d belonged.

It was standing room only in the church, where mourners – including Michael’s mum and dad, Mark and Debbie, younger sister, Becky, and young brother Matthew – gathered.

During an emotional reading from Michael’s sister Becky, she said: “Who’s going to keep all the boys away, big bro? If I ever needed you, you were there. You were one of a kind and no-one will ever take your place.”

Younger brother Matthew bravely stood before the masses to read a poem.

Michael – know affectionately as Mikey – died on the southbound carriageway of Holes Bay Road on May 4 after a collision involving a car.

Speaking at his funeral and fighting back tears, one friend said: “You were a true friend who cared dearly. Whenever I was feeling broken you were the glue that held me together and I thank you for that.

“I know everyone will agree that you were the heart of the club and the bond between all of us there.”

Among the mourners were members of the sea scouts and classmates from Corfe Hills School, where Michael studied until training to become an electrician at his uncle’s firm.

In another eulogy Alistair Watkins, of Poole Yacht Club, said of Michael: “His temperament was always one of cheerfulness – a little cheeky, but never unkind.

“His enthusiasm to help out was ever present. His kindness will never be forgotten.”

The service was conducted by Reverend Pamela Walker

POEM

Read out by Mikey’s younger brother Matthew:

Mikey, Mikey, Mikey

He was helpful and fun

Smiley and brightened the sun

You punched me everyday

It hurt in every way

You stood in front of the telly

And watched criminal minds or maybe even CSI

I still love you today

And will forever and a day

You will still be a smiley

Loveable Brother

So rest in peace

And be that tanky beast

You will stay in

my heart forever.

'SO PROUD TO CALL YOU SON'

THE Reverend Pamela Walker read the following tribute from Michael’s devastated mother and father.

“From the moment you were born, my son, you kept us on our toes.

“There was never a dull moment with you around.

“There are no words to describe the heartache, sorrow and sickness we are feeling knowing you have been taken from us.

“Life is so unfair. The house will be quiet and possibly quite tidy… no wet towels to pick up or smelly socks to dispose of.

“We’d give anything to hear you bang through the door and start shouting ‘Debba, Debba, Debba.’ “I cannot remember when you started calling me that instead of mum, but I always knew it was an endearment so I never minded.

“Your rib-crushing bear hugs and your smiling face will be remembered forever by all those who knew you and loved you, my son.

“For us those memories will give us the strength to carry on for Becky and Matthew.

“We never told you enough that we loved you, but we hope and pray that you knew.

“Although you have driven us to distraction sometimes, we wouldn’t have changed you for the world.

“You really were a very special young man. Always kind, always caring, always thoughtful of others.

“We’re so proud to call you our son.”