He shone like a light and everyone was drawn to him

In a powerful tribute to her son, Sue Walker told the congregation at Acomb Methodist Church, in York Road, that he was a "caring, loving person", who never had a bad word to say about anyone.

"There is nothing I can say about Danny that you as his family and friends don't already know," she said. "He was a friend to everyone he met and was always smiling."

Danny's body was found in St Stephen's Road, York, in the early hours of April 2. Post mortem examination results showed no clue as to how he could have died, although the death is not being treated as suspicious.

The 23-year-old, who had an 18-month-old daughter, Ellie, with his girlfriend, spent the night before he died at a 21st birthday party and at Toffs nightclub in York city centre.

Mrs Walker, 41, of Cornlands Road, asked the congregation to close their eyes and picture Danny sat fishing next to a beautiful stream, with Jesus Christ at his side.

"He shone like a light and everyone was drawn to him," she said.

"He loved you all.

"I know he is with Jesus."

The famous Bob Dylan song, Forever Young, was played at the service, before family friend Liz Ransford gave the address.

She said the floral tributes on Danny's coffin, depicting the cross and the gates of heaven, were a poignant memorial to him.

"Sue said she now knows how Mary felt when Jesus was crucified," Ms Ransford said.

"Danny knew who Jesus was and believed in him."

Mourners, who filled the church, were invited for a drink at the White Rose Pub, in Cornlands Road, after the funeral.

A collection was taken to raise money for a headstone for Danny, a former Oaklands School pupil.

A spokesman for the York coroner's office said further toxicology tests were being carried out to try and determine how he died.

Danny leaves two sisters, Teri Louise, 15, and Cassie, 16, and two brothers, Tony, 21, and Nathan, 12.

Updated: 09:57 Thursday, April 14, 2005