(In memory of Stephen (Reggie) Pearce br of Kilnsea,1980–2005) br br The wind blows cold through the churchyard trees br and sadly tolls the passing bell br as mourners shuffle up the leaf-strewn br narrow path between the leaning stones. br br He was just twenty-five, so young, br so full of life, and love of life br and laughter — killed outright one night br in a head-on crash on his motorbike. br br From far and wide we’ve gathered here br to pay respect to our young friend. br I’ve never seen the church so full, br oh death, how can you be so cruel? br br Who will forget this funeral? br Four hundred strong in the nave we stood, br family and friends both young and old br and a phalanx of bikers in leathers and boots. br br Between the holy platitudes br and hymns they played his favourite songs; br one had to smile to hear within br that ancient august church of stone br br come belting out the vibrant tones br of modern rock and heavy metal.