Tributes have been paid to a flamboyant man who would turn heads along Brighton seafront by giving his family of pets a lift on his bicycle.

David Batchelor – better known as Spyke – died aged 70 of a brain tumour.

Spyke was a familiar face in the city, cycling with Monkey the dog, Mr Pipkins the rabbit and a rat named Mr Coombs.

But he was probably best known for being the travelling companion of Sam the parrot who would perch on his shoulder, safely attached by a chain on the button of his coat.

He died late last month. His funeral service will be held at Woodvale Crematorium South Chapel on Wednesday at 10.45am followed by burial at Clayton Wood natural burial ground at noon.

No floral tributes, but donations can be made to the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) c/o Co-operative Funeralcare on 01273 607276.

Leave your tributes to Spyke below.