The older sister of a teenager who was killed when he was knocked off his scooter in December paid tribute to her brother in a touching eulogy today.

Islington Gazette: Messages from Henry's mother and fatherMessages from Henry's mother and father (Image: Archant)

Claudia Hicks, who has been at the centre of the “Justice for Henry Hicks” campaign putting pressure on an inquiry into the police involvement in the 18-year-olds death, spoke of her family’s heartbreak at the funeral at The Holy Redeemer Church in Clerkenwell which was attended by thousands.

Henry, who would have been 19 on Monday, was being followed by police when his black Vespa scooter hit a parked car in Wheelwright Street, near the junction of Roman Way, Holloway, sending him into the path of an oncoming Saab.

His sister today paid tribute to her “best friend” and the “best brother a girl could ask for”.

“You were my best friend Henry, my heart beat, my whole wide world,” she said.

“You are the only person who could make me laugh all day, you were so, so funny.

“Saying we’re heart broken is an understatement – you were the best out of us, the most loving, caring, kindest boy to ever walk the planet.

“I’m the luckiest girl in the world to have you for 18 years you’re the best brother a girl could ask for.”

Also paying tribute to Henry at the funeral was Father Paul Baggot who performed Henry’s baptism and confirmation ceremonies at the same church.

He spoke of how he might be remembered as “that cheeky boy at school” and referred to his famous smile.

But Henry’s sister Claudia captured the mood and the reason behind the incredible turnout with her words about her brother.

“You were so many people’s best friend,” she said, “all the boys argued over you, they all say you were their best friend because you were so special.

“You looked after them all and you made sure they were all OK, you were the best and always will be.

“You’re about to be so so missed handsome boy, you’ve made such an impact on so many peoples lives.”

A booklet handed out at the funeral also contained messages from Henry’s mother and father Dione and David and pictures of Henry with his brother Will and younger sister Lydia.

Badges with the Justice for Henry Hicks logo were handed out to guests at the funeral, relating to a petition to speed up the IPCC inquiry in to his death which has now approaching 7,000 signatures.

Last week the IPCC announced that four officers had been served with gross misconduct notices relating to the incident.

After the funeral a short service was held at Golders Green Crematorium and family and friends will be celebrating Henry’s life at the Hanbury Arms, in Linton Street, Islington tonight.