A CAVALCADE of cyclists led a funeral procession through Ambleside to honour one of the world’s top triathletes who died last month.

Chris Stirling, 37, of Clappersgate, near Ambleside, died suddenly on April 29, and news of his death was greeted with shock and sorrow in the area and among athletics communities across the country and beyond.

The cycle entourage included fellow members of the Kendal Tri Club and Ambleside AC, and former colleagues at the Giant bike store in Kendal, and the Climbers’ Shop in Ambleside.

The private funeral at Beetham Crematorium was followed by a memorial service in Ambleside Parish Church which was attended by hundreds of friends and admirers. They included international competitors from the triathlon world where Chris was hugely respected. He achieved success across the world, including Norway, Canada and Patagonia, but his greatest personal triumph was winning the Celtman extreme triathlon in 2017.

The organisers of the race sent their flag to decorate the coffin. A bagpiper playing Highland Cathedral piped the mourners into the church.

Friends later gathered at Zeffirellis in Ambleside to celebrate his extraordinary life and achievements.

Mr Stirling, who was originally from the Bristol area, moved to South Lakeland around 15 years ago and was a member of Kendal Tri Club and Ambleside Athletic Club and also the Celtman triathlon club.

His partner Jo Kilkenny ran the Brathay Windermere marathon on Sunday in his honour. A Just Giving page has been set-up in memory of Chris with proceeds going The Brathay Trust which works to improve opportunities for children and young people. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/dionne-stirling