MORE than 150 mourners wore something red to pay their final respects to a loyal Swindon Town fan.

Loved ones made a poignant goodbye to Bradley Perkins of Shaplands, Stratton St Margaret, at Kingsdown Crematorium yesterday.

The Robins season ticket holder of 20 years, also known as “Brad”, was born with spina bifida. He used a wheelchair all of his life, but never let his illness get him down.

The 43-year-old lost his fight for survival after suffering heart failure at the renal unit of Churchill Hospital in Oxford two weeks ago.

Bradley’s final wish was that he wanted to be buried at sea.

As this is impractical, his family will arrange for his ashes to be sprinkled over the sea at Mudeford near Bournemouth, where many family holidays were enjoyed.

Bradley’s dad Ian, 68, of Lydiard Millicent, told the service: “He had an indestructible will, unbelievable strength and optimism. Bradley’s smile was for everyone.”

Ian said some of Bradley’s last words were: “Tell everyone I love them.”

Bradley, who went to Nythe Primary School and Treloar School in Alton, Hampshire, also leaves his partner Paula, his mum Linda, 62, sister Kate, 34, and brother Joe, 38.

Rev Geoffrey Gleed, who could recall meeting Bradley aged six at his family home in Nythe, led the touching service.

He said: “We shouldn’t mourn Bradley’s death, but celebrate his life.

“He had a lot of humour and was a very brave chap.”

Michael Fisher, the chairman of Swindon Town Football Club Disabled Supporters Group said: “Bradley lived for Swindon Town.

“He will be sorely missed, especially on match days, but I’m sure he’ll be looking down on us.”

One of the new plastic weatherproof shelters is set to be named after Bradley at the County Ground. This shelter will cover disabled fans from the elements in front of the Don Rogers stand.

A named plaque will also be attached in a further tribute. Bradley’s space will not be sat in for the rest of Town’s season.

Donations can be made to the Swindon Town Disabled Supporters’ Fund via Hillier Funeral Service, 170 Victoria Road, Swindon, SN1 3DF or call Hillier’s on 01793 522797.