Worcester Cathedral tributes to vicar's son in swimming tragedy

Jul 14 2009 by Paul Bradley, Birmingham Mail

THE funeral of a Midland vicar’s son saw hundreds of friends and family pay their final respects during a colourful ceremony.

In a service at Worcester Cathedral, 17-year-old Tony Ballard, from Worcester, was remembered as a lad who “loved his friends”.

He died two weeks ago after apparently getting into difficulties while swimming in the River Severn, near the town’s racecourse.

A touching tribute was made by best friend Will Smith, who spoke about Tony’s “lively spirit” and “love for life”. Tony’s coffin was carried out of the cathedral while The Beatles’ Let it Be played in the background.