MASSIVE TEDDINGTON TURNOUT FOR FUNERAL OF ‘BIG ALF’ (Photo Special)
About eight hundred mourners turned out for the funeral of Alfie Summers, a prominent and much-loved and respected member of the traveller community at Teddington’s St Mary with St Alban Church this morning.
Those paying respects spilled out into Manor Road as the church was filled to capacity and the coffin, carried by a traditional carriage with four horses with plumed feathers formed part of the cortege as well as big floral tributes in the shape of a heart with a photo of the man, known as ‘Big Alf’ and ‘The Bear.’
Alfie Summers was born in 1957 and grew up in Teddington with his three siblings.
After school, he worked with his father on a fruit and vegetable stall before marrying Debbie at 18.
They raised five children together and shared a close family life with Debbie’s mother, Gertie.
Alfie later became a roofer, proudly teaching the trade to his sons, while maintaining a deeply cherished bond with his daughter, Debbie.
After he and Debbie separated, he built a long, loving 42‑year partnership with Anne, helping raise her son Scott and welcoming their son Adam.
Known affectionately as “The Bear,” Alfie adored his large family of 24 grandchildren and 6 great‑grandchildren, forming an especially strong bond with Cliff Jnr.
He also embraced his daughters‑in‑law and son‑in‑law as part of his extended family.
The tribute added: “Remembered for his warmth and loyalty, Alfie is now reunited with his parents and sisters, whom he loved dearly.”
One of those present said: “He was a larger than life character in our community – we all knew him as a Big Alf. He will be missed.”
A fleet of black Rolls Royces with darkened windows was seen in the High Street preparing to collect some of the mourners.
It is understood only the service – conducted by Father David Cloake -took place at St Mary with St Alban and the burial will take place at Shacklegate Lane cemetery in Teddington.
Teddington’s High Street was completely blocked in both direction as the funeral took place.