THEY sounded their horns, flashed their lights and revved their engines – as the sun went down over Swindon scores of young motorists paid tribute to Alex Szymanski.

Alex, 19, of Lynmouth Road, Churchward, died instantly when he and his uncle, Shaun Hill, were involved in a three-vehicle crash on Wharf Road, near Wroughton, on November 2.

Shaun, 28, battled through the pain of his injuries to be at his “best friend’s” funeral yesterday at Kingsdown Crematorium.

Not many funerals require a coach to carry mourners, but Alex’s popularity demanded it and as more than 100 people filed into the small chapel, the pride on his parents’ faces was palpable.

Leading the service, the Rev Geoffrey Gleed said there was simply not enough time to tell all of the fondest memories of Alex.

“But when asking others to describe him I was told ‘cars, cars, women and women’,” he said.

“He would speak of how lucky he was to have two ‘fit aunties’ and would often give them stingers on the backside – a tradition I believe little brother Corey will continue.”

The courageous 12-year-old battled through his own tears to say goodbye to his brother, who thought the world of him.

“I know that Alex was particularly proud of how well Corey is doing with his rugby,” said Mr Gleed.

As the service continued the laughter equalled the tears as Mr Gleed spoke of Alex’s confusion at once being given separate shampoo and conditioner rather than his usual 2-in-1 favourite.

It took his childhood sweetheart Roxanne Bradford to tell him which to use first.

But the one thing Alex will be remembered for above all is his passion for cars. It was that passion that would ultimately claim his life, just two weeks after buying the car he called his pride and joy.

In tribute to the young car fanatic, Alex’s family ordered a wreath in the shape of his beloved Citroen Saxo. The baby blue creation lay next to a floral tribute of Alex’s name at the foot of his photograph. Laughter broke out among the congregation when Akon’s Sexy Chick rang out through the speakers as they filed out of the chapel.

As the line-up of 15 cars and their drivers paid their tribute, many lingered to sign a book of condolence some simply saying ‘I miss you’.