Tributes paid to crash death biker Neil Smitten

Floral tributes adorn the roadside where a city biker was killed this week.



Neil Smitten, from Chapelfields, died when his bike crashed with a van in Tamworth Road, Keresley.

Emergency crews and passers-by had tried to resuscitate the 42-year-old father but he died at the scene.

Flowers and messages of condolence have been left by mourners since Saturday's crash.

One neighbour's tribute describes his death as heartbreaking and a sad loss of a fantastic friend 'who was always there for us'.

Another who knew Mr Smitten said on a facebook page set up in his memory: "So tragic to see Neil's face smiling knowing he has gone.

"He was one of the worlds nicest people. A lovable cheeky chap with a kind heart.

"Hearing his name always brought a smile to my face. My thoughts are with his family. RIP Neil x."

He was married with two children, and the family are being supported by specialist officers. They have not yet released their own public tribute but the officer investigating his death branded it "a tragedy for all concerned".

Mr Smitten's Honda CBR 100 collided with an Iveco van at the junction of Waste Lane at around 5.55pm on Saturday. Roads in the area were closed for five hours while specialist officers examined the scene.

The van driver was spoken to by police but has not been arrested.

Lead investigator PC Damian Gibson called on witnesses to get in touch.

"We extend our sympathies to all affected by the death of Mr Smitten," he said.

"If we are to fully understand the circumstances surrounding his death, we really need to hear from people who were in the area at the time of the collision or who saw the motorbike or the van being driven in the moments leading up to the crash."

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman confirmed: “The man had suffered numerous serious injuries and attempts were made to resuscitate him at the scene.

"Sadly, despite those best efforts, he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

Anyone who witnessed the crash should call PC Gibson, from the Regional Collision Investigation Unit, on 101.