DEVASTATED friends and family of a biker killed on an Ipswich road have today paid tribute for a “very special person” who touched all of their lives.

Tom Potter

DEVASTATED friends and family of a biker killed on an Ipswich road have today paid tribute for a “very special person” who touched all of their lives.

Tributes have been paid to Matthew Page, of Platters Close, Ipswich, who died on Monday night after his motorcycle collided with a car and a wall in Clapgate Lane.

The wave of support and warmth for the 34-year-old revealed how dear he was to those he is survived by.

Mother Cheryl Hegyes, 62, said Mr Page was a first class son, brother, father and uncle.

She said: “He was a lovely boy, loved by his friends and family. He was very hard working and so helpful. He always put others first.”

Mrs Hegyes, of Blair Close, Ipswich, also thanked the hospital staff. She said: “They fought and fought to save his life. They were fantastic.”

Other friends and family left messages on our website.

Girlfriend Orla Carabine, from Dublin, described Mr Page as her “angel on earth” and said she was truly devastated by the news of his death.

She said: “Rest in peace my beloved M, you are an angel with God. God bless you my sweetheart. Love you now and forever.”

The outpouring of grief and emotion was reinforced by old school friend Bruce Blakeley, who remembered Mr Page as one of his “best mates.”

Mr Blakeley, who boarded with him for three years, said: “There is very little we don't know about each other. He was like a brother to me.

“Matthew and I talked about everything and he always accepted me just as I am. I cannot believe this is true.”

Nikki Palmer, the mother of Mr Page's daughter, 8-year-old Bethany, called him a “very special Daddy,” who touched all their lives with his special magic.

She said: “I only have to look at our precious daughter's face to see you. You were the best dad any child could ever ask for and you will always be missed and loved.”

Mr Page also had a stepson Thomas, 11, and three nephews, Jack, 14, Toby, 10, and four-year-old Acer.

Crash investigators are still looking into the cause of the collision which happened around 7pm and anyone who may have seen either the black Ford Maverick or the blue Kawasaki motorcycle involved is asked to call Pc Richard Godden at the Serious Collision Investigation Team on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.