TO the music 'King of the Road' Harold James, 69, of Oldcroft, made his last journey in a lorry around the Forest of Dean last week.

Mr James, known to many as 'Cuppy' died suddenly on August 31. He leaves a partner, two sons, a daughter, five grandchildren and a sister.

A life-long lorry driver, Mr James was a vintage vehicle enthusiast. He regularly attended rallies and steam fairs and was looking forward to attending his 40th Blandford Steam Rally. Two days before his death he had driven to Dorset with his caravan.

Friends and fellow vintage lorry enthusiasts carried Mr James' coffin on the bed of a lorry to All Saints Church, Viney Hill, for the thanksgiving service. The coffin was then taken by lorry to the Forest of Dean Crematorium.

The procession included seven vintage lorries and three vintage Land Rovers.

Undertaker Ian Watts said the occasion reflected Mr James' popularity throughout the Forest.

"He was very well known and had a wonderful sense of humour. Mourners lined the road outside the church for the procession to the crematorium, and for the service the church was full to overflowing," he said.