A COUNCIL has been left "deeply shocked" after a senior officer was killed in a collision with a car while he was riding his bicycle.Neil Greig, head of planning policy and economic development at Babergh District Council, died at the scene of the crash in Hadleigh yesterday morning.

A COUNCIL has been left "deeply shocked" after a senior officer was killed in a collision with a car while he was riding his bicycle.

Neil Greig, head of planning policy and economic development at Babergh District Council, died at the scene of the crash in Hadleigh yesterday morning.

Tributes have been paid to Mr Greig, 54, from Woodbridge, a well-known officer at the council and within the local community.

Patricia Rockall, council chief executive, said: "Everyone at Babergh is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of this tragedy.

"Neil had worked at Babergh since 1989 and was a highly-valued and respected friend and colleague.

"He will be greatly missed by all of us. Our heartfelt sympathy and thoughts go out to his wife, Fiona, and family at this very sad time."

Sue Wigglesworth, council chairman, expressed her shock at Mr Greig's death and added: "It is very difficult to express one's disbelief at this time.

"Neil was one of the most kind-hearted, good-natured people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. He achieved so much during his time at Babergh and still had so much to offer.

"On behalf of all members of the council, we would like to express our condolences to Fiona and the family and let them know that our thoughts are with them."

Mr Greig was involved in a collision with a Ford Escort in Hadleigh, on the A1071 at the junction with the road to Elmsett and Aldham, at 8.30am yesterday.

The road was closed for several hours while the police launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.

It is the second time in less than a year that a cyclist has died following a collision with a vehicle on the A1071.

Kevin Spraggons, 42, of Taylor Road, Hadleigh, died after being involved in a collision with a Ford Escort van on the same road between Wolves Wood and Hadleigh on November 19 last year.

Any witnesses to the crash should contact Suffolk police on 01473 613500.