Convoy of bikers leads funeral procession for crash victim Charlie Burgoyne

The convoy of motorbikes led a white horse-drawn carriage from Quarry Bank to High Street’s Christ Church for the funeral of Charlie, aged 17, who was killed in a crash.

Mourners lined the streets and wiped away tears as they watched the cortege go past on Monday.

At least 150 people packed into the chapel to say their final goodbye to Charlie, with many standing in silence outside after struggling to find a seat.

'No party will be the same without her'

In a tribute read by the Rev David Hoskin, her family said: “Charlie loved family get-togethers. There didn’t need to be a special occasion, she would find a reason.

“She was an active part of organising games and decorations but most importantly, the music, and being the life and soul of the party.

“No party will be the same without her jokes, wit and glistening personality.

“When Charlie was young, she always had an adult’s head on her shoulders. She was cheeky at times, with a loveable smile and beautiful moon eyes meaning she often got away with things, no matter how mischievous.”

Charlie, who was born at the former Wordsley Hospital, died at the scene of the crash in Tansey Green Road, Pensnett, on May 23.

An inquest at Black Country Coroner’s Court heard the teenager, who lived in Pensnett’s High Oak with her partner, died due to a severe head injury.

The former Brockmoor Primary School pupil was a passenger in a car that had lost control, the inquest was told.

Music and tears

She was carried into the church to Konshens' Bruk Off Yuh Back before Special Brew by Bad Manners echoed across the chapel – a song chosen by her 42-year-old father Richard Burgoyne.

The “sassy” teenager, who loved Mini cars and motorbikes, was remembered with a heartfelt poem from her childhood best friend, as well as a number of prayers and readings.

Mourners fought back tears as Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s Shallow played during the afternoon service, as well as Lewis Capaldi’s Someone You Loved.

Loved ones went on to say their last goodbye at a private gathering at Stourbridge Crematorium before family and friends shared treasured memories of Charlie at Brierley Hill’s The Garrison.

'A beautiful and gorgeous princess'

The tribute from her family continued: “Charlie was always particular about her appearance – brightly coloured nails, never a hair out of place, make up to perfection, with eyebrows ‘always on fleek’.

“She had a love of all things sparkly, which she would show wherever possible. Charlie is remembered with such affection. A beautiful and gorgeous princess, who was cheerful, outgoing and had nothing but appreciation for everything and everyone.”

Charlie, who was originally from Quarry Bank before moving to Pensnett, studied at Dudley College on a work-based learning course.

The teenager, who was fondly remembered as being a bridesmaid at her grandmother’s wedding in the Dominican Republic, worked at Pensnett’s Rootz hairdressers in Tiled House Lane as an apprentice.

The former Thorns School Community College pupil had gone straight into work after leaving the school.

Arthur Pinches, 27, of High Oak, has since been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and dangerous driving.

A gold-coloured car, believed to be a Ford Mondeo, overturned shortly after midnight.