Free cookie consent management tool by TermsFeedUpdate cookies preferencesGather Archives - H Touring Bikes
Categories
Harley Davidson News

Hells Angels Biker Passes Away at 37: A Thousand Gather in UK Town for Tribute Ride

Chris Brown, 37, affectionately known as ‘Browny’, sadly lost his life in a tragic motorbike accident while commuting home from work, suffering severe injuries from a collision on April 7.

Hells Angels Biker Passes Away at 37: A Thousand Gather in UK Town for Tribute Ride



Thousands of bikers from around the world gathered in South Shields for the funeral
(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

A dedicated husband and father, Chris tragically died while riding his motorbike home from work. His funeral brought together hundreds of mourners and fellow bikers to celebrate his remarkable life.

On April 7, Chris Brown, 37, sustained critical injuries when his Harley Davidson was involved in a tragic collision in Wallsend. He passed away in the hospital three days later, leaving behind his heartbroken wife Stacey and their two daughters, Harlo-Rose, 12, and Haylan, 7. On the day of the funeral at South Shields Crematorium, over a thousand motorbikes participated in a powerful and heartfelt procession, accompanying Chris on his final ride. A proud member of The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club, Chris was honored by riders who came from across the country and beyond to pay their respects.

Chris Brown, 37, wearing a leather jacket with 'Hell's Angels' written on it



Chris Brown, 37, suffered critical injuries in the crash
(Image: North News & Pictures Ltd northnews.co.uk)

“This is what we do,” remarked one biker who traveled from Northampton to pay respects, while others made their way from Wales, Northern Ireland, and places as far as Amsterdam, Switzerland, Belgium, Madrid, and the Canary Islands. It was a fitting tribute to a man whose smile “lit up the room,” celebrated in the service for his generosity with “no bounds.”

As Chris’ coffin with ‘Hells Angels’ inscribed on its side was brought into the crematorium, the bikers participated in chants of “Affa!” – the Hells Angels’ slogan signifying Angels Forever, Forever Angels – with the audience erupting in applause. During the emotional service, it was said of Chris: “In 37 years, he achieved more than others do in three lifetimes.”

Bikers on A189 in Northumberland follow the funeral cortege of Chris Brown who died riding home from work on his Harley Davidson following a road collision on April 7 in Wallsend



Thousands of fellow motorcyclists came to pay their respects
(Image: PA)

Chris, who served as a supervisor at Smulders in Wallsend, lived life to the fullest, measured not in years but in miles. He was more than just a biker; he was an iconic presence. His passion for motorbikes transcended mere interest; it embodied his existence.

The celebrant remarked that Chris had often said he wished to go out on his bike when his time came. Despite this, he still had much to look forward to in life.

Thousands of bikers from around the world gather in South Shields for the funeral of Hells Angel Chris Brown who tragically died in a RTC in April.



Bikers wore sashes bearing Chris’ nickname ‘Browny’
(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

Members of the Hells Angels wore sashes on their signature leather vests displaying Chris’ nickname, Browny. The overwhelming turnout at his funeral led to traffic being stopped through the Tyne Tunnel to facilitate the lengthy procession. “He embodied integrity, courage, and truly embraced the brotherhood of our club,” a fellow biker from the Northumberland chapter shared in a heartfelt tribute. “His character, style, and finesse were unparalleled.”

Stories shared about Chris during the ceremony evoked both laughter and tears. Even as a child, he displayed a fearless spirit, with a love for motorcycles that began at the age of seven. However, it was his wife and daughters who provided him with his greatest joy, as highlighted by the celebrant.

Bikers following the funeral cortege of Chris Brown



Bikers following the funeral cortege of Chris Brown
(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

Stacey Brown, Chris’ wife, expressed, “There was not a single negative word about Chris; he was incredibly kind and would do anything for anyone. He was a family man above all, especially to me and our children. His impact was profound, as everyone who met him loved him. He was genuinely a nice person.

In his memory, Stacey has committed to taking on the Three Peaks Challenge on Saturday, June 21, coinciding with the Summer Solstice, to fundraise for the Newcastle Upon Tyne NHS Charity. As of now, over £16,500 has been raised, showcasing the love and admiration held for Chris by those who knew him.

Categories
Harley Davidson News

Bikes Gather for Showcase


Bikes Gather for Showcase
CUSTOMISED: Willie Little and his unique 1996 Harley Davidson sporty chopper. PHOTO TONI WILLIAMS

Willie Little transformed a 1996 Harley Davidson Sportster by adding a shiny chrome finish.

Equipped with a six-inch oversized springer front end and a one-inch lower back, it features a custom sissy bar.

According to Little, an engineer, this motorcycle is one of his prized possessions. He undertook the project during the COVID lockdown.

In 2019, he purchased the 1200cc Sportster for $5,000, importing various parts from the United States.

When the pandemic struck, it provided him ample opportunity to enhance his bike.

He completely disassembled it, replaced the front end, lowered the rear, and crafted a personalized sissy bar.

He switched the belt drive for a chain, installed a new exhaust system, and applied custom chrome and paint finishes.

Additionally, he attached a compact 1950s-style peanut tank that holds approximately 3.5 liters of fuel.

“Just enough to get you to the pub and back,” he remarked.

The motorcycle was showcased at the Originals Ashburton motorcycle show and shine at the Ashburton RSA last Saturday.

Approximately 40 bikes from various makes and models, ranging from 1953 to 2025, were displayed both inside and outside the venue.

Little completed the motorcycle in time for last year’s annual bike show in November.

In line with his love for Harley Davidson, his forthcoming project involves rebuilding a Pan America.

ON SHOW: A collection of around 40 motorbikes displayed at the recent Originals Ashburton motorcycle show and shine at the Ashburton RSA.

Categories
Harley Davidson News

Scores of Bikes Gather for Harley Davidson Enthusiast’s Ride-Out

The family of Steve Dakin was truly moved by the vast number of motorcyclists who came to honor his memory.

In a heartfelt tribute, the coffin of the retired engineer was transported to The Birches crematorium by a model steam engine.

Steve on his cherished Harley-DavidsonSteve on his cherished Harley-Davidson (Image: Supplied) The atmosphere was filled with applause as Michael Buble’s song ‘Everything’ played, inviting everyone to celebrate his life.

Over 100 motorcyclists joined Steve on his last rideOver 100 motorcyclists joined Steve on his last ride (Image: Supplied) His daughter, Katie Mulhern, remarked: “I’ve never witnessed a funeral where people applauded as the coffin was brought in.”

The family expresses gratitude to residents for clearing the area for bikersThe family expresses gratitude to residents for clearing the area for bikers (Image: Supplied) “It was a really beautiful moment.”

Steve's last request was for his coffin to be carried by the last model steam engine he builtSteve’s last request was for his coffin to be carried by the last model steam engine he built (Image: Supplied) “The turnout was incredible, with many needing to stand outside.”

Steve and Karen riding their Harley-DavidsonsSteve and Karen riding their Harley-Davidsons (Image: Supplied) “We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every single person who attended.”

 Enthusiastic bikers Karen and SteveEnthusiastic bikers Karen and Steve (Image: Supplied) “A special thank you goes to Dave Staton for letting us use his model steam engine, the last one dad built, for his final journey to the crematorium, which was his last wish.”

A hand-knitted Harley-Davidson crafted specifically for SteveA hand-knitted Harley-Davidson crafted specifically for Steve’s coffin by the Woolverine Ladies Middlewich Knitting and Crochet Group (Image: Supplied) Hailing from Goostrey, the 68-year-old had moved to Middlewich and attended countless steam engine rallies throughout his life.

Steve was a retired engineer who spent many years working at Jodrell Bank as a shift engineer.

His father, Jim, was one of the original founding members of the Astle Park steam engine rally in Chelford.

Both he and his wife, Karen, had a shared passion for motorbikes, owning their own Harley-Davidsons.

A dedicated family man with two children, Steve was active in the Mancunian Chapter of the Harley-Davidson Owners Group, King’s Motorcycle Club Middlewich, and the Cheshire Live Steamers model steam club.

Katie shared, “He actually crafted his own steam engine models from scratch.

“With his engineering expertise, he could repair almost anything and was always willing to lend a hand or tools to others.

“His love for bikes was evident; during one rally, he fixed another biker’s broken motorcycle right there on the field.”

His brother Will and son Harry share his enthusiasm for building engines.

Steve also enjoyed archery and line dancing, was a member of the Steam Boat Association, and conducted boiler tests for steam model engines and boats.

Additionally, he played darts and dominoes at various pubs in Middlewich.

Unfortunately, he passed away after a brave fight against cancer, enduring for more than two years.

Katie expressed, “Everyone who knew him understands how fiercely he fought to stay positive, remaining the cheerful man we all loved.

“Even during his hospital stays, we needed to tell the doctors that he wasn’t just half full; he was three-quarters full.”

“He was always the first to step up if someone needed assistance.”

Steve was a proud grandfather to three grandchildren: Harley, Pippa, and Molly.

Steve Spencer, director of the Mancunian Chapter, stated: “Steve was an integral part of our Harley-Davidson Chapter and he will be dearly missed by us all.”

The Dakin family extends their gratitude to James Byatt for his help in organizing the funeral, Anna Byatt for the floral arrangements, and funeral directors Joseph Edwards and Sons for their support.

The Woolverine Ladies Middlewich Knitting and Crochet Group created over 130 worry worms for bikers and mourners, in red, Steve’s favored color.

The ladies also handcrafted a special motorbike for his coffin.

Steve Spencer and Dave Capper coordinated the motorcycle escort, while The Big Lock and Newton Brewery provided parking space for the bikers.

Celebrant Steve Game-Blackmoor led the service.

The reception was held at The Turnpike Pub with a buffet catered by Jackie and Karl Osborne.

More than £500 was raised for St Luke’s Hospice in his memory.

For those interested in making a donation, please visit josephedwards.co.uk/online-donation