A DUSTCART leading a hearse slowed traffic towards Kingsdown Cemetery today as Ciro ‘Cyril’ Cinquegrani made the journey to his final resting place.

The 60-year-old, who died unexpectedly in his sleep at his home in Portsmouth Street earlier this month, spent 35 years of his career as a dustcart driver with Swindon Borough Council, and his former colleagues came together to send him off as he lived.

Before the burial at Kingsdown Cemetery, family and friends gathered to celebrate his life with a Requiem Mass at Holy Rood Catholic Church, where he had lain in state since 4pm on Thursday.

The church, in Groundwell Road, was awash with tears and sorrow as hundreds filled the pews to pay their respects to the much-loved dad of five.

There was not a dry eye in the place as loved ones gathered to the crooning of Unchained Melody, before Father Dominic Findlay-Wilson led the traditional funeral service.

There were readings from St John’s Gospel and Psalm 22 as well as a eucharist service, before members of his family stepped forward to read the eulogy and poems to him.

“Linda had a wonderful 43 years of marriage with Cyril, but sadly on May 5 2015 he was taken from us suddenly, and way too soon, in his sleep,” they said.

“Only a king’s death is in his bed next to his wife.

“Cyril retired two years ago and was enjoying spending the extra time with Linda and his family.

“He then started a part-time driving job with Akcess.

“He enjoyed living life to the full, holidays in the sun (one of his most recent being his dream holiday travelling to Australia to see his brother Berto).

“He enjoyed a good bet on the horses and was always ready to cheer on Manchester United while being the commentator from the comfort of his own home.”

Ciro’s painted casket, depicting scenes of jockeys and horses, was carried out of the church to You’ll Never Walk Alone.

Cyril died a day before the 43rd wedding anniversary with childhood sweetheart, Linda.

They met at The Moonrakers club when they were just teenagers and were married in 1972.

He died from a heart disorder despite otherwise being fit and healthy.

“His cuddles, his presence, just him being here, that’s what I’ll miss most,” said Linda.

“He wasn’t just my husband, he was my best friend.

“He was my soul mate.

“I just miss him so much.

“I miss him terribly.

“I keep expecting him to walk back in.

“Everyone knew him.

“He was a great football supporter, he loved Man United.

“And he enjoyed going to the bingo.”

Ciro, who was born in Naples, Italy, first moved to Swindon as one of a family of 11 as a child.

Two years ago he retired after a 35-year career as a dustman with Swindon Borough Council.

Ciro leaves behind his children Rachael, Vince, Esther, Lucia and Maria and five grandchildren.