THE family of a tragic biker who drowned after swimming off Skye have asked that motorcycle fans accompany his coffin on his last journey.
The family of 54-year-old Andrew Gordon from Tranent, East Lothian have taken to social media to ask bikers to attend his funeral and give him the send off he deserves.
And after receiving a big response, they are expecting a large turn out.
The Gordon family are asking for bikers to follow their dad as he makes the 13 mile journey from their hometown of Tranent to Mortonhall crematorium in Edinburgh on Wednesday.
Daughter Sharon Johnstone wrote: “On 20th September, my dad, a very keen biker, lost his life in the sea under Skye bridge.
“He had been attending the Twisted Pistons bike rally the previous two nights and was day 3 into his 10 day holiday up in Skye.
“His funeral is next Wednesday 7th Oct, 11am at Mortonhall and we have organised a motorbike hearse for his final journey.
“We are looking for keen bikers to follow my dad on this journey from Tranent to Mortonhall as he would have loved that so much. We want to give him the best send off he deserves!
“If anyone is interested in joining in, please let us know.”
When asked if they will be expecting many bikers, Andrew’s daughter Sharon Johnstone said: “Yes I think there will be a lot.”
Coastguards launched a major search party with the help from the British Red Cross, RNLI Lifeboats, Search and Rescue Dog Association (SARDA) Scotland, and Police Scotland Dog Unit.
His body was found in the Erbusaig area of Kyle of Lochalsh four days later.
In a tribute, his wife Angela and three daughters, Caroline, Claire and Sharon shared photographs of the Skye bridge online.
His daughter Caroline posted an emotional message on the Highlands and Islands Facebook page following the news that his body was found.
She wrote: “Dad. I can’t believe you’re not here.
“Life is just so, so cruel. How can a holiday to your favourite place in the world turn into something so sinister.
“I can’t believe you are gone, my heart aches without you here beside me. Love you always.”
Locals took to Facebook to comment and share their condolences on the post.
Kirsteen Dargie wrote: “So sorry to you an your family, your dad was lovely man and I still remember he used to take me with you all swimming to Haddington and then visit your granny and grandad after it when u stayed at Longniddry.
“I will be unable to attend as I start a new job on Wednesday but will let my mum and dad know as they will want to attend. Take care.”
Elaine Gillie Bouglas said: “Sorry for your loss Sharon, will share for you, hope you get a fab response for your father”
And Suzanne Rintoul said: “So sorry for your loss. I have copied and pasted your post to share on my timeline. My brother is a biker too and has lots of biker friends.”
