Funeral of Gareth Hutch: ‘Seek peace and not disaster’

It was a moment of joy in the worst of days for Preston Hutch. After following his father’s coffin the 300m or so from the front door of his grandmother’s house to the church, he released the birds on the steps of the chapel.

Five white doves fluttered out and soared into the clear blue sky, to claps and hurrahs from mourners.

It was a fitting tribute to Gareth Hutch, who, though called ‘Gar’ by many also went by the nickname Seagull.