A CAVALCADE of motorcycles and a fire engine wound its way to the funeral service of a retired firefighter today.
Giovanni Richetta, of Wrose, Shipley, was killed in a motorcycle crash on notorious bends on the A65 near Clapham on Valentine's Day.
The 52-year-old father-of-two and grandfather had only retired from being watch commander at Fairweather Green last September after 30 years with West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service (WYFRS).
Firefighters line-up to pay tribute at the funeral of Giovanni Richetta
Serving firefighters lined up at Nab Wood Crematorium, Shipley, where Mr Richetta's funeral took place.
His coffin arrived in a motorcycle sidecar hearse before being carried in for the service which was relayed to the silent crowd outside.
Mr Richetta's daughters Daniella and Sofia paid moving tributes to their father, as did representatives of WYFRS and his Moto Guzzi motorbike club, whose members had followed the hearse in a farewell ride with their friend.
Giovanni Richetta with his Moto Guzzi motorcycle
Paying tribute after his death, West Yorkshire Chief Fire Officer Simon Pilling said the service had “a very heavy heart”.
“He was an incredibly popular, well respected and fun-loving character who appeared to be always smiling and making friends wherever he went." said Mr Pilling.
“He was larger than life and never failed to see the funny side of things, but there was also a serious side to him.
“Professionally, he was a first class firefighter, it was everything to him.
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