Mason Rist: Funeral held for teenage stabbing victim

A funeral has been held for a teenage boy who was fatally stabbed.

Mason Rist, 15, died after being attacked by a number of people on Ilminster Avenue in Knowle West on 27 January.

His best friend, Max Dixon, also died in the incident. Max's funeral was held on Thursday.

Family and friends gathered at South Bristol Methodist Church wearing the colours of Liverpool Football Club, who Mason supported.

Reverend Sally Spencer said: "I hope the family is feeling supported by the whole community and people beyond."

She said the family were being "really brave and courageous".

"Mason's family have been amazing. I've been very impressed by the courage they're showing and by the thoughtfulness they're showing," Rev Spencer added.

"Most of the funerals I take are for people who have lived a long and a good life. When it's such a young life and you know there's a lot of potential that's not being realised, then it's really hard."

She said that Mason's family had been "pulling out the stops to make this a day which will be memorable and really do Mason justice".

The coffin was covered in Liverpool FC and PlayStation pictures, to represent his love for both.

The service involved people sharing their memories of Mason, who was described as an "enthusiastic, confident and funny guy" who was "clearly loved by all who knew him".

Doves were released as the coffin was carried to the hearse, which had the words brother, son and Mason spelled out in floral arrangements.

Five people, including four children, have been charged with Mason and Max's deaths.

Two other men have been charged with assisting an offender. They all remain in custody.

A provisional trial date of 7 October has been fixed for the group facing murder charges.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.