An honour guard of bikers led the procession for the funeral of a "one in a million" family man who died on holiday.
St Paul's Church in Colwyn Bay was packed out with hundreds of mourners this afternoon, who came to pay their last respects to much-loved manager, Andrew Critchett.
The 49-year-old from Rhos on Sea was with his wife of more than 20 years, Lesley and friends when he was dragged out to sea by powerful waves while swimming in Sri Lanka on October 11.
Today bikers turned up in their droves and bowed their heads as Andrew's coffin was led into the church to the song, Lost Without You by Freya Ridings.
'Kind, generous and energetic'
The service was conducted by Reverend Christine Owen with moving tributes read by members of Andrew's family.
In it, they described him as a "kind, generous and energetic" husband, son, father, brother, uncle and grandfather.
Choking back tears, his mum Jill said: "Please bear with me today as I'm not used to talking to so many people, especially in circumstances that I never dreamt would ever happen."
She said she was "overwhelmed" by the amount of people who turned out adding: "I'm so very proud to call Andrew my son.
"He made so many friends in all different walks of life.
"He was a son in a million, hard working, loyal, a good brother to his three lovely sisters, his twin Joanne, Suzanne and Sian.
"He was also a good citizen and had many good attributes, too many to mention."
'He lived life to the full'
Andrew's dad, Norman reflected on Andrew's early years and said he took over the brick garden shed and opened a bicycle repairs shop for local teenagers, and developed a love for motorbikes, cars and engines.
He was interested in scuba diving and the family set up Conwy Valley Divers where Andrew was treasurer and instructor.
"We had several really happy family diving holidays," Norman said.
His first proper job was for a decorator suppliers before moving into the distribution and parcel trade.
Andrew, known to friends as Andy, latterly worked as a manager for Halford's Auto Centre in Llandudno.
Friend, Wayne who has known Andy for 40 years said he "lived his life to the full," with his soul mate, Lesley.
"He always had a smile and enthusiasm, he never moaned," he said.
'He was fiercely loyal'
"He was kind, generous, funny, energetic and boy could he talk.
"So much so that when I saw him a few weeks ago, I had to pretend I had a dentist appointment just to get away for my tea.
"But I was never bored of his company, I always enjoyed being around him.
"Those who knew him well, knew he was not to be crossed. He was fiercely loyal to his family and friends."
Laughs were heard in the church when Wayne said: "I hope one day when it's my turn to leave this earth I'll see you again. If I don't see you, I'll definitely hear you."
Stepson, Daniel, spoke of how Andy came into his life 26 years ago.
He described him as a "confident, caring and strong man" both mentally and physically.
He said he always put family first, was very proud of his 20-year-old son, Bradley and being polite and a gentleman was always his motto.
Andrew's coffin exited the church to You're my Best Friend by Queen.
Donations were made towards Help for Heroes.
