Nottingham stabbings: Hundreds gather at funeral of Barnaby Webber
- Published
Hundreds of people have gathered to remember one of the people killed in the Nottingham attacks.
Around 600 people gathered at Taunton Minster in Taunton, Somerset, to pay tribute to Barnaby Webber, 19, who died after being stabbed on 13 June.
Fellow student, Grace O'Malley-Kumar, also 19, and school caretaker Ian Coates, 65 also died in the attack.
Among the congregation were many of Mr Webber's friends, as well as Ms O'Malley-Kumar's family.
The teenager from Taunton - a first year history student at Nottingham University - was previously described by his family as a "beautiful, brilliant, bright young man".
Due to the funeral, road closures are in place on Magdalene Street, Church Square, Whirlgig Lane and Hammet Street from 10:00 until 14:00 BST.
Both Ms O'Malley-Kumar and Ian Coates were remembered at the service.
Their photographs were on display at the entrance to the church, alongside a hockey stick and ball and Nottingham Forest scarf, to remember their love of their respective sports.
Mr Webber's wicker coffin was brought into the church to music by Annie Lennox, with her song Into The West.
The service was led by the Right Reverend Ruth Worsley, the Bishop of Taunton.
The minister choir sang Amazing Grace before mourners heard tributes from Mr Webber's former teachers and friends at Taunton School and university colleagues.
At the request of the Webber family, the congregation then loudly sang his favourite hymn Jerusalem.
His godparents, Katharine Reynolds, Robin Barrow and Abi Rawlins, read poems and an address was given by Dr Eliza German, chaplain of Taunton School.
Mr Webber's parents, David and Emma and his younger brother Charlie, paid emotional tributes to a son and brother.
Rt Rev Worsley then led prayers before the choir sang This Is Me from The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
Mr Webber's family had previously said everyone in Taunton who wished to pay tribute to their son was welcome.
A private ceremony will take place after the service, where the family ask for only invited guests to attend.
The families of Mr Webber and Ms Malley-Kumar are to create a foundation in their name, to ensure they "leave a legacy".
A fundraiser for Mr Webber has already surpassed its £5,300 goal, with almost £10,000 being donated.
Mr Webber's mum, Emma, previously said: "Barnaby was killed in a senseless, horrific attack. He leaves behind a family broken by grief and loss but determined not to let him be taken in vain.
"His inclusivity, quiet patience with others, and sheer generosity of his time prove what an extraordinary 'ordinary' person he was.
"In time an official 'Barnaby Webber Foundation' will be created and funds will be used to further all of the qualities listed above and to keep his memory alive whilst reaching out to others."
A vigil was held last month at Mr Webber's home cricket club in Somerset.
His father, David Webber, said everything that everyone had been doing to show support across the UK had been "amazing".
"It gives us strength and I'm sure it gives Grace and Ian's family strength," he said.
Valdo Calocane, 31, of no fixed address, has been charged with three counts of murder over the killings.
He is due to enter pleas before Nottingham Crown Court on 25 September, and a trial date has been scheduled for 12 January.
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- Published18 June 2023
- Published15 June 2023
- Published15 June 2023