Family of Lewis Williams pay their last respects to murdered 20-year-old at emotional service

The friends and family of murder victim Lewis Williams have today said an emotional farewell to him.
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The 20-year-old’s funeral took place today in Swinton, just over a month after he was shot dead in an apparently targeted attack in Mexborough on Monday, January 11.

The number of mourners at today's service was limited to 30 due to the current coronavirus restrictions, but many more came to pay their respects outside the church.

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On Lewis’ final journey, flowers in his hearse spelled out the word ‘brother’ and his coffin entered the chapel covered in a Manchester City flag.

The funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott MerryleesThe funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott Merrylees
The funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott Merrylees

Many of those in attendance brought blue flowers to the service while others carried pictures of Lewis himself.

Before the service, Lewis’ family appealed for anyone planning to come to the funeral to stay safe and abide by the current social distancing rules.

And they added that they also welcomed the thoughts and prayers of those who were going to pay their respects to Lewis from home rather than attending in person.

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They said: “Lewis was much loved by his family, partner and friends. He was always there for anyone needing help, and always had a smile on his face.

The funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott MerryleesThe funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott Merrylees
The funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott Merrylees

"He was funny, loving and one of the most polite young men you could hope to meet. Lewis has left a massive hole in the hearts of all who loved him.”

Lewis was shot in the neck and face on Wath Road in Mexborough on the afternoon of Monday, January 11.

However, despite the best efforts of paramedics, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

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Eleven arrests have been made so far as part of the investigation, with six of the suspects charged with Lewis' murder.

The funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott MerryleesThe funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott Merrylees
The funeral of Lewis Williams who died following an incident in Mexborough last month has been held at St. Margaret's Church in Swinton. Picture Scott Merrylees

These are Jack Parkes, 20, of Arnold Crescent, Doncaster; Ryan Nisbet of Springwood Road, Barnsley and four teenagers, aged between 15 and 17, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

Anyone who has any information on the murder is asked to call South Yorkshire Police on 101 and quote incident number 495 of January 11.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.