A community came together today (Tuesday, May 2) to pay their respects to a “loyal” and “devoted” father and son who tragically lost their lives in March.
Hundreds of mourners packed into the West Chapel at Cambridge City Crematorium for the joint funeral of Gary Dunmore, and his son Josh who were both shot dead at their homes.
The service – described as 'a celebration of their lives’ - was also live streamed for the wider community at Bluntisham Baptist Chapel.
READ MORE: JustGiving page for Gary and Josh Dunmore has raised more than £5,000
Describing the pair, who both worked in the building trade, celebrant Brenda Woods, said: "I don’t need to tell you that Gary and Josh were two strong characters.
“A father and son who didn’t just live life – they loved life.
“And this was so evident from their sense of fun and adventure, their sense of humour, their caring and outgoing personalities, the infectious smiles, their love of the outdoors and their joy of motorbikes.
“And, of course, the unconditional love of family...”
The pair's final journey began in Somersham, where the village community gathered at The Cross to pay their respects as the procession made its way to Cambridge.
Motorbikes also followed the procession in honour of the pair’s love of motorcycles and motocross.
This publication was given the family’s blessing to report from the service, which was filled with loving tributes, memories of happier times and stories that captured the fun nature of both men.
There was even a special mention of their favourite biscuits – custard creams.
With family at the heart of the day, both men have been put to rest in coffins covered in photographs of them with their loved ones.
Music was also chosen to reflect their lives.
The opening piece - the JCB Song by Nizlopi – tells the story of a father collecting his son from school in a JCB and the laughs they have together.
A close friend described Gary as being like Peter Pan because he “never grew up” and was a big kid at heart.
The tribute to his life said: “Gary would do anything for the people he cared about, and the people he cared about most were his family.
“If you needed him, he was always there. He would give you his last 10 quid if you needed it, that was the sort of man Gary was.”
Father-of-one Josh, 32, was described as “an amazing and talented young man” in his tribute.
It said: “He was the life and soul of every family party or occasion.
“He was very funny, cheeky and loveable. Josh was popular and loyal to his family.”
Family and loved ones have been fundraising for the Magpas Air Ambulance in Gary and Josh’s memory.
Almost £8,000 has been raised within a week of the JustGiving page going live. You can donate here.
Meanwhile, a man has attended court charged in connection with the murder of both men on March 29.
Stephen Alderton, 66, of no fixed abode, has been charged with two counts of murder and one count of possession of a firearm.
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