TRIBUTES have been paid to a biker who died after a crash on a busy Hampshire road.

Paul Matthews, 56, of Caledonia Drive, Dibden, was riding his Harley-Davidson when he was involved in a collision with a Mercedes Sprinter van.

It happened on the A326 Marchwood Bypass at its junction with Staplewood Lane just after 10am last Saturday.

Mr Matthews was rushed to Southampton General Hospital following the collision but doctors were unable to save his life.

In a statement his family said: “We are truly devastated and numb having been given this news.

“Paul was a fantastic, loving husband and brother. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and colleagues.

“We would also like to express our sincere thanks to those people who helped Paul at the scene.”

As reported in the Daily Echo, the A326 was closed for several hours following the accident.

Police later confirmed that Mr Matthews died shortly after being taken to hospital.

Officers appealed for anyone who saw the crash, or had dashcam footage of the collusion to come forward.

Last night a police spokesman said investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision were ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to ring Hampshire police on 101, quoting reference number 44180339900, or call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.