By Alan Irving

Published at 15:44, Wednesday, 14 July 2010

MOTORCYCLE enthusiasts from all over the country joined hundreds of locals as they gathered for the funeral of popular Egremont landlord Stuart Lucas.

LAST RIDE WITH STUART: Part of the 200 motor bike convoy that rode to Distington

Mr Lucas, 48, was found dead in the beer garden of The Central which he ran with his partner, Tracey.

His keen interest in motorbikes was reflected by his presence at rallies all around the country.

His pride and joy was a Harley Davidson which was ridden behind the hearse to his funeral by close friend Sammy Kerr.

There was standing room only in Distington Crematorium with dozens more in the gardens outside.

During last Friday’s service, Mr Lucas’ sister Lyn told mourners that her brother had always been a hard worker, and that he had followed his father into work at Marchon, before later working as a tree surgeon.

Stuart took over the running of The Central three years ago, making the Main Street public house a popular venue for live rock and blues music. Keeping animals, particularly dogs, was another great interest and he was rarely seen in public without trusted pet Timba, who joined mourners at the non-religious service conducted by family friend Karl Connor.

It featured some of Stuart’s favourite music, such as Alive by Pearl Jam, and messages from friends and The Central customers.

Gothique Tattoos of Egremont have inked a number of commemorative penguin tattoos over the past two weeks, with recipients making a donation to the Great North Air Ambulance and Cancer Research UK, two charities that Mr Lucas supported during his years in the pub by holding regular fundraisers.

Mr Lucas is survived by his sisters Sylvia and Lyn and partner Tracey.

Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk