The sudden death of a lifelong motorcyclist has sparked a call for bikers to join his "final journey" at his funeral next week.

Doting grandfather Dave Manser, 66, was tragically found dead by his heartbroken wife, Cheryl, at their home in Carlton Hill, Herne Bay.

The father-of-three was mad about motorbikes, having ridden them for more than 40 years, so Cheryl has invited other bikers to join his funeral procession on Wednesday.

"I would love an amazing send off for my darling husband," she said. "I know he would love an excellent send-off.

"He has been a biker the whole of his life, even before I met him."

Lorry driver Dave, who had 11 grandchildren, was discovered dead by his wife after she woke to find him not in bed on the morning of July 30.

"He had kissed me goodnight, told me he loved me and would follow me on as usual," she said.

"I woke up at 2.20am feeling the bed empty and when I got up I found him in his chair - peaceful, but gone.

"I will never forget the panic I felt at that moment and keep reliving it every day."

The couple had been together 38 years and in November celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary with a blessing. They had three sons, Brett, Anthony and Colin.

"He was a big bear of a man with a heart to match," Cheryl said. "I used to call him my Yorkie man, after the chocolate bar advert.

"We have three amazing boys and 11 wonderful grandchildren. He loved photography travel especially historical places and old buildings.

Keen photographer Dave had experienced health problems for the past four years, causing a great deal of pain and discomfort, and last year was forced to retire.

"He never showed it, never complained," Cheryl said. "He went to mass every Sunday and thanked God for every day.

"The week before I lost him was his 66th birthday. We went camping in Norfolk and had a wonderful week.

"He told me he loved me every day we were together. He held my hand when we crossed a road and held me close when I was scared or upset.

"We had a special bond, He was my better half and my world has fallen apart. I am broken. He was an amazing man."

Dave's coffin will leave his house at 41 Carlton Hill, Herne Bay, at 11.30am on Wednesday, August 14, and head to the Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Clarence Road.

After a 45-minute service starting at midday, his body will be taken to Barham Crematorium for committal at 2pm.

Cheryl said: "I would like him to be escorted on both journeys if possible, so anyone who could help at either would be great. But especially the journey to Barham - it’s a long, lonely one.

"He deserves a great send-off."