IN A tribute, Alex Harding’s family have said they will remember him as a ‘popular and decent boy who loved banter’.

The 21-year-old tragically died following a collision on the M5 near Stroud at around 5.30am on Thursday, November 12.

Alex leaves behind his mother, Tricia Harding, father Andrew Harding and step-sisters Ezme, Gemma and Sarah.

Born in Caerphilly in South Wales, Alex moved to Gloucestershire at the age of seven with his family.

Growing up he went to Robinswood Primary and Churchdown School.

Since he was 18 he had been on an engineering apprenticeship with Delphi Diesel Systems in Stonehouse and was in his final year.

Mum, Tricia said: "Alexander was loving life, he had a job that he loved and lots of friends.

“He was so happy.”

Andrew, Alex'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.”

After moving to Gloucestershire Alex quickly developed a passion for Gloucester Rugby and was a season ticket holder in the Shed at Kingsholm.

Tricia said: "He absolutely loved his rugby, as soon as he moved to Gloucester he was a passionate Gloucester fan.

“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, Alex was an active member of the Sea Cadets.

Andrew said: "He achieved so much during his time with the Sea Cadets.

"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 Alex’s 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.

Tricia said: "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.”

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

Tricia also extended their thanks to Alex's friends and his employer Delphi Diesel Systems.

"Dephi have been so supportive to Alexander's family and his close colleagues and we will be forever grateful for their kindness during this incredibly difficult time.

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

Alex's funeral is taking place at Gloucester Cathedral on Monday, November 30th at 1pm.

The service is open to all and those attending are asked to wear rugby shirts and bright clothing.

Donations will be made to the Anaphylaxis Campaign.