A MASS revving of motorbike engines by hundreds of mourners marked the funeral of popular local businessman and former racing star Colin Appleyard today.

The funeral of Mr Appleyard, who launched Suzuki Cars in Great Britain and has showrooms in Keighley, Huddersfield, Ashton-under-Lyne and Shipley, was held at St Peter's Church, Shipley. As well as friends and family, the event was filled with employees of Mr Appleyard and numerous motorcyclists, still in their leathers and carrying their helmets into the church.

Parked in the church's car park and on the surrounding streets were dozens of motorcycles, many bearing the Colin Appleyard Logo that has become popular with riders across the country.

Among those speaking at his funeral service was Andrew Smith, of Yamaha Motors Europe, who had flown in from Amsterdam specifically to attend.

As the coffin, featuring a bouquet with two chequered flags, was carried into the church under the July sun, many of the motorcyclists revved their engines in a fitting tribute to the man who had such a big impact on the industry.

There were so many people at the service that many in attendance had to stand outside, where they listened to proceedings on an outdoor PA system.

Mr Appleyard, who died last week aged 79, began his career as a motorcycle mechanic for Allan Jefferies in Shipley in the early 1950s, working his way up to sales director. He left in 1970 to start his own dealership in Keighley.

Over the years he took on several franchises, including Suzuki, and it was on the back of that success the Japanese manufacturer asked Mr Appleyard to launch Suzuki Cars in Great Britain.

He employed over 140 staff in his showrooms, and many of these staff attended the funeral, although those in attendance were told that the showrooms were still open during the funeral, as Colin would not have wanted to miss out on a sale for any reason.

He also had a racing career - as a young man he joined Bradford and District Motor Club, later serving as president and being awarded life membership. His racing career spanned two decades and after retiring in 1969 he concentrated on managing the race career of Robin, who went on to win the British 125cc championship five times.

He was awarded with an MBE in 2013 for his lifelong service to motor sport.

During the service grandson Jack Appleyard spoke of family life with Colin, ending his tribute by saying: "God speed - enjoy the ride."

Mr Smith, who had a long business relationship with Mr Appleyard, spoke of the high esteem in which he was held by people within the motor industry, pointing out the huge number of people who turned out for his funeral.

And lifelong friend Tony Jefferies talked about how Mr Appleyard had influenced a lot of people within the industry.