Watch: applause for Hammertons Ferry captain after funeral

By The Editor 5th Jan 2021

The community showed their appreciation this morning for a Twickenham legend.

Residents kept a social distance as they lined Church Street to give Francis Spencer of Hammertons Ferry a fitting send off.

After a private funeral a hearse drove down the road to clapping from the crowd.

The cars stopped outside St Mary's Church where rites were read out. "Francis, for years you relied upon the river for your pleasure and your purpose."

As a blessing, water from the Thames - instead of holy water - was sprinkled.

There was an incredibly touching moment as son Andy Spencer said "thank you everyone" as he took his seat to drive off.

Watch our six-minute video of the occasion at the top of this page.

Tributes

If you'd like to leave a tribute to Francis, email [email protected] or send us a message on social media.

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