A GRIEVING family have paid tribute to a popular biker and loving husband who was killed in an Isle of Wight crash.

Mark Ward had moved to overtake a car when his Honda motorcycle collided with a black Mazda2 which had been travelling in the opposite direction.

The 50-year-old biker from Ryde was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital but he did not survive his injuries.

Mr Ward's wife Julia said in a statement: “Mark was a keen motorcyclist and loving husband.

“He sadly passed away following a tragic accident on March 14 on The Downs Road. He was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital, but two weeks later complications meant his health deteriorated."He will be greatly missed by me, the whole family, and his many friends on the Isle of Wight.”

Now police have launched a fresh appeal for witnesses as they continue to investigate the crash which happened on The Downs Road near Mersley Lane on March 14.

Anyone with any information can contact Sergeant Bob Chambers at Shanklin police station on 101 quoting 44150087469 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.