MOURNERS have gathered for the funeral of a “young prodigy” who died in a motorbike crash.

Family and friends said their final goodbyes yesterday to Sebastian Abbatiello, known as Seb, at his funeral at Our Lady and St Alphonsus Roman Catholic Church, Hanley Swan, near Upton.

The 19-year-old died after coming off his bike on the A449 Malvern to Ledbury Road on Saturday, August 8.

Leading the service, Father Christopher Calascione said: “All I have heard from those who knew him is that he was an exceptional person who in work had been described as a young prodigy.

“He had a brilliant future ahead of him. He had charm, energy, determination, ability and great promise.

“Let us celebrate his life, such a gift of a son, a grandson, a relative, a friend.”

About 75 people gathered for the funeral led by the family, including Mr Abbatiello’s father Sebastian. His younger brother Sergio and mother Michelle Jancey were also present, as well as his grandparents and extended family who had travelled from Italy.

A horse-drawn hearse carried the cofin to the church. Family and friends walked behind the carriage, followed by three of Mr Abbatiello’s friends on motorbikes, for which he shared a passion.

Tony O’Donnell, owner of computer firm Bits, where Mr Abbatiello worked, said in the eulogy: “He sent me a birthday card and on the front it said ‘live every day as though it is your last’.

“I will live the rest of my life a day at a time and try to honour his memory.”