Mourners turn out for colourful funeral tribute to ‘perfect’ tandem-riding couple

Ross and Clare Simons, who were described by friends as “two peas in a pod”, hoped to start a family and had just been given the go-ahead to begin IVF treatment.

Less than 24 hours after that, Mr Simons, 34, and his 30-year-old wife died when their bicycle was hit by a Citroen Picasso car, in Hanham near Bristol, on January 27.

The two coffins, adorned with white flowers, were laid side by side in a hearse as it entered Westerleigh Crematorium, in South Gloucestershire.

Family and friends, who were asked to wear bright colours to reflect the couple’s characters, fell silent as they caught sight of the hearse.

Family members had asked those attending the funeral not to bring flowers but to donate money to a Bristol IVF charity.

In a statement they said: “Both families are sure this is what Ross and Clare would have wanted. Also, could anyone who attends make sure they wear bright colours, and no black.

“This is because Ross and Clare were both colourful and bright people.

“Ross and Clare have left a huge hole in the lives of everyone who knew them.”

During the service there were several readings and tributes to the couple who – as stated on the order of service – lived by the words Love, Laugh, Live.

Their wedding song – Heaven, by DJ Sammy – was played along with Endless Love, which the family said gave people a time to reflect on Mr and Mrs Simons’ love for each other.

At the end of the service the families and other mourners scattered white rose petals over the coffins.

The couple, who lived in Hillfields, Fishponds, had bought their tandem bike shortly before Christmas because it was something they had always wanted.

Mr and Mrs Simons had been married for about 18 months and had been together since they met in 2001.