THE family of man who died in a flat fire in Colwyn Bay have paid tribute to their 'tall, gentle giant who had a heart of gold'.

Christopher Cargill, aged 52, was the beloved son of Dorothy and Eric and partner to Valerie Hughes. He was also a brother to Brent and was described by his family as a 'wonderful Grandy' to his grandchildren.

Christopher died in a house fire in Greenfield Road on January 7. Three fire crews from Colwyn Bay, Abergele and Llandudno were called to the incident.

His funeral was held on Tuesday, January 28 at Colwyn Bay crematorium.

Motorcyclists made the send off memorable and provided an escort.

Donations were collected on the day for Cancer Research UK.

Valerie, partner of Christopher for 20 years, said: "I would like to say a big thank you to the lovely escort of bikers who escorted Chris on his last ride.

"It meant a great deal to the family, as Chris's first passion was his bikes and motorbikes have been in his life since he was a young boy.

"Chris had always hoped to attend the TT Races in the Isle of Man but due to ill health, he couldn't make the journey so we are hoping as a family we may be able to arrange for someone to take his ashes there at some point in the future.

"Chris's second passion was his family.

"He was a really funny person and not as grumpy as he liked to portray himself to his friends. He was a tall, gentle giant with a heart of gold."

The escort started at the Whistlestop Cafe in Rhuddlan.

Bikers proceeded via the A55 to Llanddulas turn off where more riders joined, including L-plate riders.

The bikers provided a guard of honour at the crematorium.

Directors gave permission for the bikers to let their engines 'roar' in memory of Christopher.