More tributes to tragic Ben

TRIBUTES are today continuing to pour in for teenage motorcycle crash victim Ben Summerton.

Staff from the McDonald's restaurant in Ravenswood where he worked have left messages at the site of the accident in Nacton Road, Ipswich, and also tied McDonald's balloons there.

Other friends have left floral tributes and messages on cards.

Ben, 19, suffered massive head injuries when his Honda NSR 125 collided with a concrete post outside a house.

Despite medics' desperate attempts to revive him, Ben died at Ipswich Hospital soon after.

He had been on his way home after a late shift at work around 1.20am on January 21 when the crash happened.

The Evening Star has opened up a special section of its website so people can pay their respects.

Gillian Maddison wrote: “My memory of Ben will be his gentleness and love for animals.

“He was one of life's extra special people and I feel very privileged to have known him while he was undertaking his studies. God bless you Ben and rest in peace.”

Claire Fisher said: “My heart absolutely bleeds for you Wendy (Ben's mum) - he sounds like a lovely lad, such a tragedy. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, sleep well Ben. God Bless.”

David Hoare wrote: “Rest in peace. You were so young - our thoughts are with your family and friends at this devastating time.”

Ben, of Purdis Farm, who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome in 2003, was trying to find a job working with animals and had recently sent off a dozen applications.

He had successfully completed his Advanced National Certificate in Animal Care at Otley College last summer.

A collision investigation is under way. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call PC Richard Godden at the Serious Collision Investigation Team on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Pay your tributes to Ben - write to Evening Star Letters, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk or post a comment on www.eveningstar.co.uk