THERE was an emotional farewell yesterday (Tuesday, 17 March) to popular Corringham resident Lennie Ringshaw, whose funeral took place at Corbets Tey.

There was a big turnout at the crematorium as the coffin of Mr Ringshaw, a former firefighter, arrived on a fire engine with serving officers presenting a guard of honour.

Afterwards Lennie's life was celebrated at the Springhouse Club in Corringham.

Lennie's daughter Louise expressed thanks to the many who turned up to pay their last respects.

She said: "To everyone who joined us to honour and say goodbye to my dad, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

"We are truly overwhelmed and deeply moved by the love you showed him.

"Seeing so many of you there — well over two hundred people filling the chapel and outside of the crematorium — was incredibly powerful.

"Friends, colleagues, neighbours, and family who travelled from near and far, and so many more joining us from around the world through the live stream. It meant more than words can express.

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"Dad would have been so happy and proud to see how many lives he touched.

Lennie (right) was a member of a group of East Thurrock United fans who becasme known as the Saga Louts. They are pictured here at eastbourne Borough, a ground where the club pulled off a famous win in 2011 to set up their first ever FA Cup first round appearance.

"A very special thank you to the wonderful team at West & Coe Funeral Directors. Your personal, kind, and respectful professionalism carried us through today with such care and dignity. You looked after Dad beautifully and supported our family every step of the way during one of the hardest days — thank you from all of us.

"To Nigel Catchpole, our celebrant - thank you for crafting and leading such a warm, personal, and fitting service.

"You captured Dad's spirit perfectly and gave us all a beautiful way to remember him.

"A huge well done and thank you to my daughter Elicia and brother David for the moving, heartfelt tributes you shared today. Your words came straight from the heart and meant the world to everyone listening.

"And to every single person who has sent flowers, cards, or made a donation to the Firefighters Fund — thank you. Your generosity honours Dad's values and the causes he cared about so much. It will make a real difference.

"The service was a testament to the extraordinary man my dad was, and we feel so grateful to have shared that love and those memories with all of you. Thank you again — for coming, for watching, for caring, and for holding us up."

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