THE family of a motorcyclist killed in a crash on Gravel Hill on Tuesday have paid tribute to a loving father and husband.

An inquest on Thursday (OCT 24) identified 41-year-old Michael Birt, from Bournemouth, as the victim of the crash, who died at Poole Hospital shortly after it took place at around 7.50am.

His family, including his wife Suzanne and three children Luke, Josh and Katie, said: “Michael was a well-loved and popular young family man who had a great zest for life and always thought of other people before himself.

“He was tragically taken away too soon and leaves behind his loving family.

“We all miss him terribly and would like to thank you all for the support and kind words which we have received from all his friends and family. Cheers Michael, and have as many 'one more' as you want. Night night and sleep tight.”

The collision took place close to the traffic light junction with Queen Anne Drive between a MAN articulated goods vehicle, driven by a 44-year-old Southampton man, a white Vauxhall Vivaro van driven by a 41-year-old Poole man, and Mr Birt’s black Yamaha motorbike.

The cause of the crash is still being investigated.