Around 100 members of Ipswich’s motorcycling community honoured a popular 26-year-old by riding out in memory of him at his funeral this afternoon.

East Anglian Daily Times: Robert Stewart, of Maudslay Road, Ipswich, with his partner Julia Day. Picture: CONTRIBUTEDRobert Stewart, of Maudslay Road, Ipswich, with his partner Julia Day. Picture: CONTRIBUTED (Image: Archant)

Robert Stewart, of Maudslay Road, Ipswich, died in a crash with a car in Henley Road, Akenham on April 29.

The keen motorcyclist, described as the “perfect family man” by relatives, is believed to have been riding out of Ipswich towards Henley on his blue Yamaha bike when the crash happened.

Despite the best efforts of paramedics who attended, Mr Stewart died at the scene.

Paying tribute to the 26-year-old shortly after his death, his family said: “Robert was an amazing man to know, he was my everything: the perfect family man.

“He was a loving son, partner, brother and dad and we shared so many good times together.

“He was taken too soon and will be sadly missed by us all.”

East Anglian Daily Times: More than 100 vehicles took part in a procession to the funeral of Robert Stewart. Picture: GREGG BROWNMore than 100 vehicles took part in a procession to the funeral of Robert Stewart. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Mr Stewart’s escort gathered at his home this afternoon.

The cortege left for Seven Hills Crematorium at 12.30, followed by family cars and a procession of around 100 motorbikes.

Shortly after the accident Michael Herbert, chairman of the parish meeting in Akenham, said concerns had been raised previously about the safety of the stretch of road between the Lower Road and Rede Lane junction, where the crash happened.

East Anglian Daily Times: More than 100 vehicles took part in a procession to the funeral of Robert Stewart. Picture: GREGG BROWNMore than 100 vehicles took part in a procession to the funeral of Robert Stewart. Picture: GREGG BROWN

Mr Herbert, who rides a motorbike and has sons who also ride, said safety was always a concern for the biking community.

“Our sincere condolences go the family of the motorcyclist,” he added.

“I can only imagine what it must be like.”

East Anglian Daily Times: More than 100 vehicles took part in a procession to the funeral of Robert Stewart. Picture: GREGG BROWNMore than 100 vehicles took part in a procession to the funeral of Robert Stewart. Picture: GREGG BROWN