FAMILY and friends paid tribute to a Wirral policeman 'with a great zest for life' during his funeral today.

Gulf War veteran Paul Briggs, 43, suffered a severe brain injury in a motorcycle crash on the Birkenhead flyover while serving with Merseyside Police in July 2015.

His death, on January 22, came a month after wife Lindsey won a court battle to let him die.

His funeral procession at Landican Crematorium this morning was led by mounted officers and officers on motorbikes.

A guard of honour was formed as the cortege arrived at the crematorium and as the family entered the chapel where the service was held.

A floral tribute saying "Daddy" was in the hearse and a police officer's hat was laid on top of the coffin.

Some mourners stood outside for the ceremony as the chapel was full.

The cortege entered the church to Nimrod by Elgar and the congregation was told how the father-of-one had a great zest for life.

The ceremony included tributes from his brothers and a poem read on behalf of his five-year-old daughter Ella, five.

The poem by Tram-Tiara T Von Reichenbach was listed in the order of service as Ella's Tribute to Daddy - My Spirit and read on her behalf by Tony Garvey.

His brother Jeff also read a poem, while his other brother, Greg, gave a eulogy titled Paul, The Man, Husband, Dad, Son, Brother and Friend.

The Bon Jovi song It's My Life was played as recessional music.

Paul’s coffin was carried by police officers through a guard of honour into the crematorium at Landican cemetery, followed by his wife Lindsey.

More than 100 police officers also turned out to pay their respects.

Police on horses were also stationed at the entrance to the cemetery.

Paying tribute to his special brother, Jeff Briggs described him as someone who "loved to bring a smile" to the faces of all who knew him.

He said: "So full of loving deeds, who always thought of others first and helped fulfil their needs.

"Someone who'll never know how much he’s missed and thought about for when he left, it seemed as if the stars had all gone out.

"Brother you meant so very much in every single way, and you're remembered with much love today and every day."

The passages from a poem by Tram-Tiara T Von Reichenbach read by Tony Garvey said: "When I see a bird chirping on a nearby branch I will know it is you singing to me.

"When a butterfly brushes gently by me so care freely, I will know it is you assuring me you are free from pain.

"When the gentle fragrance of a flower catches my attention I know it is you reminding me to appreciate the simple things in life.

"When I look out to sea, I will think of your endless love for your family.

"When I think of mountains, their majesty and magnificence I will think of your courage for your country.

"No matter where I am, your spirit will be beside me.

"For I know that, no matter what, you will always be with me."

Paying tribute last month Merseyside’s chief constable Andy Cooke, said: "On behalf of PC Briggs' colleagues and friends at Merseyside Police I want to let his family know that we are all thinking of them at this tragic time.

"I have met with Paul's wife Lindsey and the last 16 months have been devastating for her and Paul's family, but they bravely fought for the Paul's right to die.

"Paul was a young man and his death is a tragedy, but I know that Lindsey, his daughter Ella, and his family, will find some comfort in knowing that Paul is now at peace and his wishes have been honoured.

"Paul joined Merseyside Police in 2004, following in his father's footsteps by choosing a career in policing after leaving the Army. His first posting was in Wallasey between 2004 and 2007.

"From there Paul joined the Roads Policing Unit in 2007, where he quickly became a valued member of the team.

"Paul dedicated his career to protecting the public and the force is flying the flag at half mast in his honour.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with Lindsey, Ella, his family, friends and colleagues."