THEY came to say goodbye to their Superhero son and brother.

Bubbles blew in the fresh Spring air as people - armed with bells and tambourines - packed into Carlisle Crematorium to remember brave Harley Andrews, 16.

Harley was a twin who developed complications at birth due to twin-to-twin transfusion. He had cerebral palsy and epilepsy and was fed through a hole in his stomach after having a tracheotomy fitted.

The teenager, who could not walk or talk, died last week in Jigsaw at Carlisle’s Eden Valley Hospice.

His dad Peter, and brothers Luke, Owen and twin Harrison, carried his Marvel Superhero coffin into the crematorium to He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother by The Hollies.

Tracy Ward, civil funeral celebrant, said: “Harley’s superpower was smiles - smiles that brought out the best in everyone. The thought of him smiling made you smile.”

Harrison, 16, read a poem Welcome to Holland by Emily Kingsley watched on by his mum, Melissa.

Music from the film Toy Story - You’ve Got A Friend In Me - was played and the song No One But You (Only The Good Die Young) by Queen as the congregation reflected on what Harley meant to them.

A tribute from his dad, Peter, said: “Although Harley never said a single word, just one of his smiles would mean a thousand words. One smile would make you forget all your troubles.”

The congregation - wearing bright clothing - made a noise with their tambourines and bells to remember the popular youngster who was looked after by three amazing carers - known as Harley’s Angels.

Special thanks were given to Sophie, Sammy and Emma from James Rennie School. They cared for Harley at home and at school and gave him “rich experiences”.

Tracy said: “Harley had his own fanclub - Harley’s Angels and these ladies became his best girls. What went on between Harley and his angels is a secret.”

Tracy recalled a time when Harley once fell asleep for a 20 minute nap on a swinging hammock at Houghton Hall - much to the dismay of staff!”

Tracy said: “Harley was living his best life with his own rules.”

His brother Luke described Harley as “the brightest light on the darkest day”.

He said: “It may be true that you were taken too soon but it would selfish of us to stop you from spreading your love and joy. It was the biggest privilege to be your big brother.”

Tributes were also give from his mum and brothers Harrison and Owen.

The nurses and staff at the hospice and the children’s ward at the Cumberland Infirmary were also thanked for their care.

A closing poem If I Were A Superhero by Steve Lazarowitz was read and the leaving music was Search for the Hero Inside Yourself by M People.

A collection was made for Jigsaw and the children’s ward at CIC. A reception was held at Carlisle Cricket Club.

* The Cumberland News attended Harley’s funeral with permission from the family.