The family of 16-year-old Dean Fulford, who died when his moped was involved in a road traffic collision on the A40 at Ross earlier this month, have spoken of their loss for the first time. Parents, Andrew and Louisa Fulford, described Dean as loving teenager with a strong sense of his own identity who would always put others first. They say they are heartbroken to lose him. In a statement, the Fulford family said: "Dean's memory will be carried by many as he touched the hearts of everyone he encountered. We will always have him in our hearts and minds and are heartbroken that he has been taken from us. Dean's friends have the memory of a biker goth who skated the half pipe in his leather trench coat. No matter what the weather, Dean always wore his trench coat!" Dean wasn't afraid to be different and would dress how he wanted and wouldn't let anyone change him. He also had a special love with his girlfriend Rebecca and they were very happy together. They had planned their future together right down to the last detail. The teenager, who would have celebrated his 17th birthday on August 27th, was a biking enthusiast and was looking forward to taking delivery of a 125cc motorbike. The former JKHS pupil was taking an engineering apprenticeship at Haigh Engineering in Ross and had plans to go to art college. His ultimate ambition was to design and build custom motorbikes. An inquest has been opened and adjourned. For information about the funeral contact Abbotsfield Funeral Directors on 01423 356445.
