AROUND 170 bikers took part in a memorial ride to pay tribute to a 17-year-old boy who died in a crash on the A31.

The event was organised by members of the Bournemouth and Poole Bikers Facebook group, Micheal James Day and UK Bikers in memory of David Pilbro.

David died at the scene of a collision with a white Ford Transit panel van near Merley on Friday, October 6.

James Pullen, who helped organise the ride, said David’s death had affected the biking community.

“He was an extremely passionate biker. He was a member of our group and also the Manic Mondays bike meet at The Baker’s Arms. Before he died, he was starting up a bike meet at Holes Bay roundabout.

“There was a fantastic turnout for the memorial bike ride – around 170 took part. We started at Holes Bay and did a ride-out through Wimborne and down the A31 where he crashed to pay our respects.

“The ride lasted about an hour. It was a sensible ride, nice and slow. We went to the Baker’s Arms afterwards and had one last drink for him.”

He added: “His death has affected us all quite a lot as we’re a tight-knit community. It’s especially raw as he was so young. There have been quite a few incidents with bikers lately so everyone’s on high alert.”

David is the ninth motorcyclist to be killed on Dorset’s roads in the past 12 months, with nearly 20 being involved in serious crashes over the same time period.

The driver of the van, a 48-year-old man from Southampton, was uninjured in the collision.

David’s father, Sean, paid tribute on behalf of the family and thanked everyone who sent messages of support. He also thanked those who helped at the scene of the crash, including a marine, nurse and E-zec medical staff.

“David was in the happiest part of his life. His loss will be with us forever,” he said.

“There are no words to express how we feel as a family. For sister Jade, grandparents John and Elizabeth, Chris and Nicky and girlfriend Amy and her family it’s especially difficult.”