THE FAMILY of a 21-year old who died in a collision on the M5 earlier this month have paid tribute to his memory, saying he was “a popular and decent boy who loved banter.”

Alexander Harding died following a collision on the M5 near Stroud at around 5.30am on Thursday, November 12.

He leaves behind mum Tricia Harding, dad Andrew Harding and step-sisters Ezme, Gemma and Sarah.

Alexander was born in Caerphilly in South Wales and moved to Gloucestershire at the age of 7, attending Robinswood Primary and Churchdown School.

From the age of 18, he had been on an engineering apprenticeship with Delphi Diesel Systems in Stonehouse, and was in his final year.

“Alexander was loving life. He had a job that he loved and lots of friends. He was so happy,” said mum Tricia Harding.

Andrew Harding, Alexander's dad added: “He was such a good boy - nice, decent and polite. He loved having a laugh with us, he used to call it banter!”

“He absolutely loved his rugby, as soon as he moved to Gloucester he was a passionate Gloucester fan,” said Mrs Harding.

“He was also a big Wales supporter, he was delighted when they beat England in the World Cup and loved boasting to his England supporting friends!”

Along with Rugby, Alexander was for a long time an active member of the Sea Cadets.

“He achieved so much during his time with the cadets,” said Mr Harding.

“He rose to the rank of Petty Officer, played bugle and drums in the band and learned to sail.”

It was as a result of his voluntary work with the Sea Cadets that he was nominated and won the very first Gloucestershire Young Ambassador award at the 2013 Believe in Gloucester Awards.

“We were so proud of him, the other nominees had been put forward by big organisations, but Alexander's nomination was all down to his own efforts. That gave you an idea of the kind of person he was. He could relate to young and old people and that came out through his voluntary work,” said Mrs Harding.

She added: “Andrew and I would like to thank the emergency services, in particular officers from Gloucestershire Police for their support and honesty.”

“We would also like to thank our many friends and neighbours for the incredible support at this difficult time.”

“Alexander’s employer Delphi and his close colleagues have also been incredibly supportive, we will be forever grateful for their kindness.”

Alexander's funeral will take place at Gloucester Cathedral on Monday, November 30 at 1pm.

The service is open to all and those attending are asked to wear rugby shirts and bright clothing, with all donations being made to the Anaphylaxis Campaign.