MORE than 400 family and friends attended the funeral of 18-year-old James Painton this week which was followed by the poignant release of 18 white doves.

Led by Reverend Graham Turner, the Service of Thanksgiving took place on Monday (August 6) at St Michael and All Angels Church in Market Place, Macclesfield.

With his beloved King's School rugby shirt draped over the coffin, James' closest friends and teammates were pallbearers and they were followed into the church by parents Nigel and Shirley, and sister Sophie, 20.

James, of Byrons Lane, was fatally injured on the final day of a three-week school rugby tour in Argentina. He was hit by a car driven by an off-duty policeman in Buenos Aires and died later in hospital.

After the hymn Amazing Grace, Tim Andrew, Principal of the Sixth Form Division of the King's School, began a moving eulogy describing James' life as a pupil from the age of seven.

A chatter-box when younger, James grew into a friendly, enthusiastic and intelligent young man, Mr Andrew said.

He added: "James was a true King's pupil - giving 100 per cent in all that he did and always with a smile on his face."

"Charmingly witty", James' great loves were said to be his family, school life and rugby.

Affectionately dubbed "The Speedboat" for his athleticism on the field, James became an integral part of the school rugby team, particularly remembered for climbing from the fringes of the B team to holding a main role in the first XV squad in one season.At King's, James won the Endeavour Prize for hard work - following in his sister's footsteps - became a prefect, part of the peer support programme and undertook the Duke of Edinburgh Silver and Gold awards. He was House Captain of Capesthorne twice.

Paying tribute to their beloved pal, five of James' classmates gave a moving account of how much James meant to them as a friend.

From his many nicknames and "legendary" chat up lines, the lads told humorous anecdotes about James' passion for fancy dress and dancing abilities. He was remembered as "the life and soul of the party".

A passage from the bible was read by Dr Stephen Coyne, Head of Foundation at King's, followed by thoughts and feelings from Nigel, Shirley, and Sophie, read by Geoffrey Wheeler.

These touched on happy memories from family holidays in France and Anglesey.

They thanked everyone for their presence and support and the family also paid tribute to La Plata Rugby Club.

After a moment of silence, the song 'Time of your Life' by Green Day was played.

Outside the church, sister Sophie released 18 doves into the air, one for every year of James' life.

There was a private committal at Macclesfield Crematorium.