Funeral held for Oswaldtwistle teen Jay Slater in Accrington

Around 500 people were either inside the chapel or outside watching the celebration of life service for the 19-year-old from Oswaldtwistle on a screen, as the town bid farewell.

Flashes of blue could be seen across the cemetery as people wore clothing in that colour in Jay’s memory.

Jay, an apprentice bricklayer, died on June 17 while on holiday in Tenerife after falling in a steep rocky area following a night out, and his body was returned to the UK around two weeks ago.

A post-mortem examination found he died of traumatic head injuries, consistent with a fall from height.

A horse-drawn carriage carrying Jay’s blue coffin arrived outside the chapel at around 10.20am this morning (August 10).

The coffin, covered in flowers and displaying Jay’s name on the side, was then carried in and followed by his family, mum Debbie Duncan, dad Warren Slater, and brother Zach Slater.

Hundreds remained outside, braving the pouring rain, and watched the service, led by Sarah Barton of Barton & Hallworth Funeral Service, on a screen outside the chapel.

Crowds gathered outside the chapel awaiting the cortege (Image: NQ)

Ms Barton read tributes from three of Jay’s friends, who all described the fun times they had together, playing on the same football teams and being together at school.

One of the friends, Joseph, said he and Jay played together at Huncoat United when they were around 12.

He said: “He was there rainbow-flicking every man and his dog. He had a crazy talent. The guy was a natural.

“Whenever you were around him, you’d just be buzzing and smiling. There were no bad vibes when he was about.

“I appreciate the time I did get to spend with him because they were all good times.”

Another friend, James, said: “Jay was my truest and loyalist friend. I miss just talking for hours on end, or him ringing me up to drag me out of bed to take Buster on a walk.

“We had plans to start a business together once he finished his apprenticeship.

“The impact Jay had on my life and the people closest to him, I will forever cherish.

“He used to light up any room no matter where he was. He was always dancing and bopping about.

“I promise to look after your best buddy Buster, and of course your mum, Debbie. Love you always brother.”

Once the service concluded, huge crowds followed the cortege once again as it took Jay to his final resting place.

Jay Slater (Image: LBT Global/Archive)

In a tribute released prior to the funeral, Jay’s family said: “A loving son of Debbie and Warren, a cherished brother of Zak and brother-in-law of Jessica, a treasured grandson of Dawn, June and the late Dougie, a much-loved nephew of Glen and Katie, a dear cousin of Maddie and Tillie and a loyal friend to many. Jay will be very sadly missed by all those who knew him.

“At the young age of five Jay started playing football for Huncoat United FC until the age of 17 and also did a few seasons with the Sunday team at St Joesph’s too.

“He also loved spending time chilling out with his friends.

“Jay’s love of music and dance started at a very young age. He loved attending music festivals and events across the country and also loved to socialise and meet new people.”