Family and friends of Josh Winsper turned out in force on Friday to say their final farewells as the fisherman and father-of-one was laid to rest alongside his own father.

Josh had been working in Milford Haven as a crew member on the fishing boat the Golden Fleece, when it is believed he tripped and fell into the water following a night out. His body was not found until two days later.

His mother, Sandra, and siblings, Paige and Ryan, had wanted Josh's friends to follow him on his last journey from his home in Treliever Road and were delighted with the response. A long line of mourners trailed behind Josh's family as they made their way to the King's Arms where everyone was invited to raise a glass in his memory.

The funeral service then followed at St Gluvias Church where Josh's aunt, Rachel Gerred-Hart gave an emotional eulogy. She said: "This is a man who touched people. Loved people and never ever had a bad word to say about anyone. He never bitched or talked about anyone he was honest and loyal and true.

"He reminded me of a Tasmanian devil – he was like a whirlwind flying through. Chatting your backside off, before whizzing off again leaving you wandering what had happened. He would party til dawn, stripping his shirt off in the clubs as he dances about.

"If Josh was here now I think he would say only one thing…'party hard, make mistakes, laugh endlessly. Do things you’re afraid to do. After all, you're only young once.' The truth is you don't know what is going to happen tomorrow. Life is a crazy ride, and nothing is guaranteed."

Rachel also paid tribute to Josh's crewmates, Ben, Jacko and Mark, and invited the congregation to give them a round of applause. She said: "We have all been united in our grief, but one thing stands out, apart from the efforts of the emergency services to find him, and that’s the crew of the Golden Fleece.

"Never will you meet a crew like these men whose lives have been changed forever. Never leaving that dockside, ensuring that our boy came home come hell or high water. You gave Josh a new confidence and he loved his job. He loved his life and he leaves no regrets."

The service was conducted by Father Stephen Wales who said afterwards: "I had the immense privilege and honour to preside at the funeral of a young man whose life was cut short way to early. The family and friends were an inspiration. The people of Penryn did Josh Winsper proud."

Josh, who leaves a four-year-old son, Rudy, was buried with his father, Russell, who died 11-years-ago.

An online appeal to raise money in Josh's memory which was launched by his cousin Jen Derbyshire Mua, has so far seen £2,165 of the £4,000 target pledged. Half of the money raised will be put into a savings account for Rudy and some will be used for a family holiday to Butlins. Anyone wanting to donate should go to gofundme.com/joshwinsper.