HUNDREDS of people turned out to bid a fond farewell to a much-loved Bewdley teenager who was tragically killed when he was hit by a car.

The funeral of 16-year-old Lewis Chambers, who was a student at The Academy in Kidderminster, was held at All Saint’s Church, Wribbenhall yesterday (Thursday, January 14).

Lewis died after he was hit by a car outside West Midland Safari Park on the A456 on Sunday, December 20 at around 6pm.

More than 200 family and friends packed the church for the service, which featured some of Lewis’ favourite music including “I’ll Be There For You” - the theme from the TV show Friends.

His nan Lynn Stephenson said the family were touched by how many people had attended the service to say their goodbyes to her grandson.

She said: “More than 200 children, including his friends from The Academy, and adults packed out the church for the service and we were so overwhelmed by this.

“It is very comforting for us to know that he made such an impact on so many people’s lives. Even the vicar said he had not seen a turnout like that for such a long time.

“You would think he was a quiet lad but clearly he did something for all those people to want to come out to say goodbye.

“As a family, we have done a lot of crying and grieving and we are trying to keep ourselves occupied. His younger brother Ben is naturally upset but I told him Lewis’ spirit is with us and he takes comfort from that.

“We are all remembering the good times. Lewis gave us 16 years of very happy memories and he was the best lad you could ever wish for.

“I want to say a very special thank you to everyone who came to his funeral and have sent their well wishes to us. It means a lot.”