HUNDREDS of people gathered to say goodbye to Kristian Johnson.

Family, friends and colleagues attended Burnley Crematorium yesterday to remember the 24-year-old, who was tragically killed when he was hit by a car in Market Street, Bacup, last month.

Flowers were displayed in the hearse carrying Mr Johnson, from Weir, which depicted the words ‘Kristian’ and ‘nephew’.

Mr Johnson’s coffin was covered in pictures of him with his family and was carried into the crematorium by his loved ones.

During the service, Paula Johnson, Kristian’s mum, tearfully said: “My beautiful baby boy, my Kristian, my everything stolen from me.

“Twenty four years of age and so much to live for.

“You were heartbroken when you lost your dad and as a mum, I nursed, cared and supported you through the darkest of days, now you have been taken.

“How can I never protect you again, hug you, kiss you and take your troubles away.

“Who am I without my beautiful baby boy.

“You grew up into such an amazing young man and I am so very proud of you.

“I have given you my heart to entwine with yours and ask you to take care of it until we meet again.

“You are so loved by so many people and I understand why.

“I wish I could have protected you that night and I wish, more than anything, I was with you right now.

“I am not sure what my purpose in life is anymore as you were my reason for living, my reason for working hard and my reason for waking up every morning.”

Mr Johnson had studied law at Burnley College and had worked at fabric company John Cotton in West Yorkshire as an administrator with his mum.

Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph last month, Theresa Healey, Mr Johnson’s auntie, said: “He was a good lad. He was sensible.

“Kristian was the heart and soul of the family.”

During the service Mr Johnson was described as a “kind, polite young man” who would do so much for his friends and family.

Flowers were placed onto Mr Johnson’s coffin by close members of his family.

Picture frames showing his family were placed in front of his coffin during the service.

He was described as having a special relationship with his mother, especially after the pair lost his father, Gary, 10 years ago.

A vigil was held on Wednesday night.