A CONVOY of bikers revved a salute to six-year-old motorcycle enthusiast Miles as he was laid to rest after dying of suspected meningitis last month.

Little Miles, from Highworth, was taken ill at his home on December 19, and died shortly afterwards of a suspected meningoccocal infection at Great Western Hospital.

After a request from the family, Swindon Bikers organised a convoy of around 80 riders from around the county and further afield to accompany the hearse as it travelled to Kingsdown Crematorium yesterday afternoon.

Due to his love of motorbikes, Miles was transported in a sidecar hearse as it wove its way from the family home to the crematorium.

Nicky Howard, organiser of Swindon Bikers, said: “Because this is a young child it is such a tragedy.

“A lot of youngsters are quite enthusiastic about bikes, so it is quite a fitting way for us to participate and pay our respects.

“The family thought that would be an appropriate way to send him off.

“Being a mum myself I really feel for the family – it’s so sad.

“My youngest child went to school with his sister so it does hit home. It is a tragedy for the whole town.

“It is something that is always on parents’ minds when you have a little one.”

Residents of Highworth have rallied around the family to help secure crucial funds to pay for the funeral, and after two weeks of generous donations the tally currently stands at more than £1,000 – twice their original target.

Martina, one of the organisers of the group, said: “As parents we thought we should do something to support the family, so we set up the page with the permission of the parents so people can choose to make a donation if they would like to help out with the funeral costs and anything that can help.

“On behalf of the people of Highworth we will then be able to pass on that amount to the family and we hope that it helps. The response has just been amazing and it has been shocking how nice and supportive people have been.

"I am very pleased with how it’s gone so far, but still grateful for any more pledges for the family.”

Tributes to Miles accompanied the flood of donations.

One wrote: “His cheeky smile and happy nature will be greatly missed. Our hearts go out to all of you.”

Another said: “Thinking of you all at this most tragic and distressing time. Highworth is with you.”

One contributor even donated the last £2 she had in her bank account that month.

Vicky Packford said: “My heart goes out to this family. As a parent myself I can't start to imagine what you are going through right now.”

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/yimby/Miles#