HUNDREDS of mourners attended the funeral of teenager Joshua Parkin, on the day he would have turned 17.

Joshua died in a car crash on Dawes Lane, Scunthorpe, on August 21, alongside 16-year-old Laura McGowan.

Teenager Bethany Smith, who was also travelling in the car, remains in intensive care at Hull Royal Infirmary.

Friends and family packed out Woodlands Crematorium, Scunthorpe, during the half hour service, where his mother, Christina Reed, was among those who gave readings.

Poignant messages from loved ones had been written directly onto the bright red coffin, and the crowd wore colours and football shirts, one of which bore Joshua's name.

The Greek Orthodox service, which included a blessing of the coffin with incense before it was carried inside, was given by Father Philip Hall, who had baptised the teen and taught him at the Vale of Ancholme School, Brigg.

In a reading given during the service, Joshua's mother said: "Words cannot express how I feel, you are and always will be my best friend, my rock.

"My world has fallen apart without you in my life, but you are forever in my heart – I told you everything, the good and the bad, you were constantly there for me.

"You were growing into a great young man, doing your own thing, living your life how you wanted to live it, but deep down I wanted you to stay as my Josh, mummy's boy.

"You are a blessing to me, I am so proud to call you my son."

Five friends also gave emotional tributes to the Vale pupil, who took his GCSEs this year and had just started an apprenticeship.

Pop songs were played during the service, including tracks by the group N Dubz and P Diddy, as well as Cast a Light by Plan B – the song described by his mother as Joshua's favourite.

The funeral of Laura McGowan will be held on Friday at 10.30am, also at Woodlands Crematorium, Scunthorpe.

Mourners have been asked to wear bright colours.