HUNDREDS of people gathered in Haddington on Sunday to remember popular businessman Dino Pacitti, who died last Sunday.

A memorial event was organised by Mr Pacitti's son Tino through social media, with locals asked to join bikers, in tribute to 52-year-old Dino's love for motorcycling.

Tino, on board his dad's bike, led a huge turnout of about 150 bikes round the town centre on Sunday.

Before they set off on their lap of honour for Dino, his 25-year-old son paid tribute to his dad.

Flanked by sister Domenica and mum Angela outside the takeaway his dad worked in since 1989, he thanked the huge crowds gathered on the town's High Street for their support since his dad's death.

Tino said: "We can't thank you enough for your cards, messages and flowers, which have been greatly appreciated at this really difficult time.

"I am sure his passing will have come as a massive shock to you all but nobody more so than myself.

"I don't think I ever realised how loved my dad was here in Haddington, but it is very comforting to know he had a special little place in all your hearts.

"You weren't ever just his customers, you were his friends – many of you have funny and happy memories of him, and for that, I am very grateful."

"He's left me to do it all by myself now, but I'm going to do my best to make him proud."

Tino then asked all the bikers, who travelled from all over the county and further afield, to start their engines so his dad "could hear and see us" because "it was what he loved".

There were tributes, too, from City School of Motorcycling, who helped Tino spread the word of the event.

On their Facebook page, they said: "Incredible turn out today for Dino! Well done to all the bikers for their attendance.

"A massive well done to Tino for riding his dad's bike – a lovely tribute!

"Thank you to all who came along to support the Pacitti family – a truly amazing turnout for an amazing man."

A post mortem confirmed Mr Pacitti died of cardiomegaly, or abnormal enlargement of the heart, last weekend.

Mr Pacitti's funeral is to take place at St Mary's Cathedral in Edinburgh at 10am on Wednesday.