POLICE officers and Barrow residents lined the streets and filled St Matthew's Church for the funeral of Special Constable David Platt.

Members of the constabulary formed a guard of honour as Mr Platt's coffin made it's way past the congregation.

Mr Platt, 32, died suddenly on January 2, and during the service those in attendance came together to remember an honourable member of Barrow Police and a dearly loved family man and friend.

The service was taken by Stuart Matthews, who said: "He was always looking out for others, particularly those who lived away, no matter who they were he would always make time for them."

"He was a keen and excellent cook, and loved to watch football and darts with his dad, and always had time for his friends."

Mr Matthews' opening speech was followed by a moment of remembrance as the song 'The Neverending Story', by Limahl, was played.

Paul Cretney, Chief Officer For Specials, who worked and trained alongside Mr Platt, said: "Dave was always striving to make a real difference in his roles.

"His huge commitment, along with his infectious sense of humour, typified everything that was good about him."

Following Mr Cretney's words, another moment to remember with another song as 'The Impossible Dream', the version by Luther Vandross, rang gracefully around the church.

Mr Matthews then read out poem 'The Rose Beyond The Wall', by A.L Frink, and a second poem in 'Life's Clock' by Robert H. Smith.

Both signified that while Mr Platt is no longer with family and friends, his spirit and the wonderful memories of him will always live on.

The service was concluded with the song 'Wonderful Land' by The Shadows, a band he and his father loved, in a rendition by Mike Oldfield.