April 29, 2015 4.11 pm This story is over 115 months old

Hundreds attend Lincoln Cathedral service in memory of Michael Beard

Together in memory: A service was held at Lincoln Cathedral in memory of the school teacher and rugby coach Michael Beard, who tragically lost his life in a road accident.

A service in memory of the Lincoln school teacher and rugby coach Michael Beard, who tragically lost his life in a road accident, saw hundreds of people come together at Lincoln Cathedral on Wednesday, April 29.

The service of thanksgiving took place three weeks after the 31-year-old’s funeral, during which hundreds of people paid their final tributes, wearing Michael’s trademark “outrageous socks” and rugby shirts.

A donations page was set up in support of Michael's family. Donations topped £10k in 24 hours.

A donations page was set up in support of Michael’s family. Donations topped £10k in 24 hours.

Michael was killed on March 25 when he was hit by a bus while cycling on Wragby Road. His death sparked a huge fundraising mission in support of his wife Nicola and two children Ella and Jack.

To date, the fundraising page set up by friends of Michael has raised over £19,000.

Hundreds gathered at Lincoln Cathedral. Photo: The Lincolnite

Hundreds gathered at Lincoln Cathedral. Photo: The Lincolnite

In a touching service which saw the Gothic Lincoln Cathedral packed with guests including children formerly taught by Michael at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School, Michael was remembered with gratitude as an “inspiring teacher, a valued colleague and the best of friends.”

In a speech from the Head of Year 10 and Director of PE at Lincoln Christ’s Hospital School, Michael was remembered as a “superb coach” with “infectious positivity”.

The congregation listened to a moving choir version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow and brave school students also stepped up the the podium to complete readings.