Motoryclist in fatal crash

The family of a motorcyclist killed in a road crash in Hempstead has paid tribute to him as police renew their appeal for information.

A red Honda CBR 125 motorbike and a grey Ford Focus struck each other on the B1054 between Boytons Lane and Water Lane just after 7am on Wednesday, July 4, 2012.

The motorcyclist, 37-year-old Derek Foster from Winstanley Road in Walden, was certified dead at the scene.

Above: Derek Foster

Derek's family has paid tribute to him, describing him as an 'uncomplicated and placid man'.

They said: "He loved nothing more than spending time with his wife and two beautiful daughters, Hannah and Esme aged 8 and 5 years. He had a passion for playing golf and he was proud to have earned his recent handicap.

"Born in Doncaster he joined the army at Carver Barracks and met his future wife Rachel on a night out in Saffron Walden. When he resigned from the army he stayed in the area, where he and Rachel set up home together and later brought their children into the world.

"He worked as a welder/fabricator and had many work colleagues who had become good mates he could share a laugh and a joke with.

"He died tragically - with his motorbike at his side, another of his recent joys in life.

"He was loved by many for his calmness and laid-back approach to life – his loss is immense and he will be sorely missed."

A 29-year-old man from Haverhill was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He is currently on police bail until Wednesday, August 22, 2012 pending further enquiries.

A section of the road was closed for seven hours while forensic collision investigators carried out their enquiries and debris was cleared from the road.

Anyone with information in connection with this fatal crash is urged to contact Essex Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Team on 101 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.