AN emotional last celebration was held for a 'loving boy' who died following a motorcycle crash.
Jack Whitelaw from Bracknell would have celebrated his 21st birthday last Sunday, but instead he was repatriated back from the Philippines after he died in a tragic crash.
ALSO READ: Woman's death sees Bracknell care home and three staff members charged with manslaughter
His family held a 'colourful' party for Jack, with his dearest friends and loved ones enjoying some music and sharing memories of the cruise worker.
The 21-year-old's dad Paul Whitelaw shared details of the party on his social media page Facebook.
He said: "It was an incredibly colourful event. The mantra was to wear your loudest, most colourful shirt - just like Jack would do.
"Everybody did. The sun shone brightly, we all sang badly, but the feeling was heavenly."
As the sunset sparkled on the sea, lanterns were let off into the sky as a way to say goodbye to Jack.
READ MORE: Coronavirus updates from schools across Berkshire
The family set up a picture of Jack with balloons, a flower wreath and music playing in the background as friends and family wore brightly coloured clothing.
Paul has been campaigning for justice ever since the crash after the moped rental company asked for him and his wife Suzy to pay for the damages caused to the bike.
His dad Paul said his son decided to rent a motorcycle and signed the paperwork to say he doesn't have a licence, which was all "totally illegal".
On top of this, it was not a steady ride for the family as there were delays in getting Jack back home due to missing paperwork.
READ AGAIN: More anguish for family trying to bring son home after fatal moped crash in Philippines
The ceremony on Sunday, February 22, saw the family dine at a restaurant where they shared memories of Jack's life and stories, which his sister Molly organised.
Paul said: "Having children is the greatest gift we can ever receive. It's amazing. Whatever age they are, they are like an invisible power bank to a parent, knowing you are safe, and that you know you are loved, are what keeps our candles burning.
"Sadly, on earth, Jack's candle has gone out but remains bright in our hearts. Molly's, burns ever brighter."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here