Family and friends of a motorcyclist who died following a road crash have paid tribute to a dedicated, likeable character with a passion for motor sports.

IPSWICH: Family and friends of a motorcyclist who died following a road crash have paid tribute to a dedicated, likeable character with a passion for motor sports.

David Fleming, of Mendip Drive, Rushmere St Andrew, died tragically when his motorbike collided with a car near Dovercourt on Thursday, September 10.

The 47 year-old bike lover had earlier this year completed a round Europe ride with brothers-in-law Lee and Andr�.

During the trip they visited 10 countries and the Audi museum in Ingolstadt before completing a circuit of the famous N�rburgring in Germany.

Mr Fleming, also known as Topsy, was married to Alison for 19 years and has two children - seven year-old Chloe and five-year-old Kayleigh.

He was the son of John and stepson of Tricia, a brother to Sally, Jo and Peter and a favourite uncle to all his nephews and nieces.

His close family, who all live locally around the Ipswich area, said Mr Fleming was a likeable character and very well known around the town.

“David's death has touched many people in the local community,” they added. “We would like to thank all his friends, customers and workmates for their support at this difficult time.”

As a keen supporter of Ipswich Town, Mr Fleming regularly attended home matches and was a passionate supporter of all motor sports, particularly Audi's and KTM motorcycles.

He grew up in Kesgrave and attended the local high school - leaving in 1978 to start his career as a cabinet maker.

A director of Kesgrave-based Barry Clamp Windows, he was responsible for installation of many windows, doors and conservatories around the Ipswich and Kesgrave area for over 20 years.

His family said that many people locally “owe their view on the outside world” to a man who enjoyed working with all his customers and was “a capable, dedicated tradesman, precise in all his work.”

Mr Fleming also enjoyed playing pool and darts and was an active member in local pub leagues, organising and competing at many local venues around the Ipswich area.