TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘gentle giant’ who was killed in a motorbike crash.

Paul Weaver, from Warrington, was killed in a fatal collision on Ditton Road in Widnes on Friday, February 8.

Now his family have paid tribute to the Latchford man, who was described as being ‘kind, loving and full of fun’.

In a statement, 59-year-old Mr Weaver’s family said: "Whether you knew Paul for four years or 40 years, he grabbed a piece of your heart by being just what he was - a gentle giant who was kind, loving and full of fun.

“He was a bit crazy, but that's what made him unique and it is unbelievable that he has been taken from us so tragically and suddenly.

“The world is now a darker place without him, and our family gatherings will not be the same - especially for the little ones who gravitated to Paul because he was just a big kid himself, and we all loved him.

“Rest in peace Paul, and ride high amongst the stars.”

READ > Wanted man Leon Cullen's picture displayed on police van

Police were called to the scene, near to the Feralco water treatment plant, at around 3.30pm following a crash involving a black Volvo skip lorry and a black and red Yamaha motorbike.

Warrington Guardian:

Feralco on Ditton Road - picture by Google Maps

While the lorry driver, a 58-year-old man from St Helens, the motorcyclist sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.

Mr Weaver’s family are currently being supported by specialist police officers.

No arrests have been made, but enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

Cheshire Police are appealing for anyone with dashcam footage to come forward, and are also hoping to trace the drivers of a van and a HGV seen in the area around the time.

Anyone who saw the vehicles involved prior to the collision are also urged to contact the force.

Those with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting incident number IML 316404, or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.