Hundreds attend 'hero's' funeral

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/england/london/5397998.stm

Version 0 of 1.

Hundreds of people gathered for the funeral of a father who was murdered close to his home in east London.

Peter Woodhams, 22, was shot dead near his home in Canning Town on 21 August, just minutes after confronting a group of youths.

Mr Woodhams' two-year-old son Sam bid him farewell calling him "my hero".

The private service took place at City of London Crematorium in east London following an hour-long procession through the streets.

'My Hero'

A horse-drawn carriage bore Mr Woodhams' coffin during the procession.

Many of the mourners, including Mr Woodhams' fiance Jane Bowden and two-year-old Sam, wore his favourite colour - yellow.

A yellow floral tribute from Sam read: "My Daddy, my hero, you're the brightest star in the sky.

"You're the best angel in heaven. You will always be nearby, you're forever in my heart.

"I will grow up just like you and make you very proud.

Mr Woodhams' fiance and son were dressed in yellow

"Love your little man Sam."

He later released 22 white doves, while others in the funeral released yellow balloons in the air.

A message on a card from Ms Bowden, which was placed in a floral arrangement in the shape of a broken heart, said: "To my darling Pee Pee: My heart will remain broken until the day we are reunited."

Two teenagers have been charged with murdering Mr Woodhams.

Bradley Tucker, 18, from east London, is charged with murder and possession of a firearm, an 8mm handgun, with intent to endanger life.

A 17-year-old youth from Canning Town is also charged with murder.