The family of a man who died following a motorbike crash in Peterlee has paid tribute to a "hardworking and funny" father-of-two.
Lee Stevenson, 27, was riding pillion on a motorbike which crashed in Passfield Way in the early hours of Saturday morning. Despite receiving emergency care, Lee was pronounced dead at the scene.
His mum Naomi paid tribute. She said: "I lost my son Lee, he was only 27. My daughter has lost her brother, and he has left behind two beautiful children.
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"Lee was hardworking, funny, and lived life to the max. He thought he was invincible, and I wish he had been. He was loved by everyone who knew him and will be missed forever."
She said that he would be "forever in our hearts".
Lee's aunt Wendy added: "Lee was a young lad with his whole life ahead of him. He lived for his children Mason and Ava. Lee worked so hard, he was always winding someone up, but he would also do anything for anyone.
“Lee was on the path of sorting his life out and he was the best nephew I could have asked for. Lee was a gentleman, a kind-hearted fella and was always full of love and laughs.
"He will always be remembered as a true mate and will be missed by all his family and friends."
The driver of the motorbike remains critically ill in hospital following the crash. A police investigation into what happened is ongoing. On Saturday, a Durham Constabulary spokesperson said: "Two men on a motorbike crashed in Passfield Way, just after 2.30am, following a brief pursuit by officers after it failed to stop.
Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, the pillion passenger sadly died at the scene. Durham Constabulary would like to express our condolences to his family and friends."
Any member of the public with information to share is asked to call the Collision Investigation Team on 01325 742702 or email catherine.iley@durham.police.uk with contact details.
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