The heartbroken family of a much-loved Northumberland biker who died following a crash have paid tribute to the loving husband and father.
Steve Russell sustained serious injuries after being involving in a one-vehicle collision involving a motorcycle on Sheepwash Road in Ashington, near to the junction with Bothel Bank. Tragically, the 54-year-old from Guide Post died after the crash, which happened shortly before 9.55am on Friday, May 12.
It was reported that a red Honda motorcycle had been travelling northbound when – for reasons yet to be established – it collided with nearby "street furniture" on the road. Emergency services attended and found the rider, Mr Russell, had suffered life-threatening injuries and sadly passed away.
Read more: Actor Stephen Tompkinson speaks out on GBH trial ordeal on ITV show Lorraine
Today, Steve’s family have issued a heartfelt tribute to him – and released his photograph - they said: “We are absolutely heartbroken and devastated as we come to terms with losing our Steve. He was a loving husband and father who still had so much left to live for.
“Steve was a kind man who loved spending time with his family and friends – as well as his dogs. He enjoyed the simple things in life such as going out fishing or for a bike ride.
“We are still coming to terms with the fact that Steve is no longer with us. As a family we would like to thank everyone for their support to date, and respectfully ask that we are given the time and privacy to grieve and come to terms with what’s happened.”
Following the crash, an investigation was launched by the Northumbria Police's Motor Patrols team to establish the full circumstances around the collision. Officers are continuing to appeal for anybody who was in the area at the time to come forward with information which could further assist their investigation.
Sergeant Ben Rutherford, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a truly tragic incident, and our thoughts continue to be with Steve’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
“We are committed to getting answers for his family and finding out the full circumstances surrounding this collision, which has resulted in such a devastating outcome. Today, I am again asking for the public’s help. Anybody who believes they witnessed this collision, or who saw the motorcycle prior to or after the incident, should get in touch with police if they have not already done so.
“We still want to hear from anybody who may have CCTV or dashcam footage which may be of interest to our investigation – so please do check your footage and get in touch.
“I would like to thank our blue-light partners who assisted at the scene, as well as everyone who has already come forward with information to assist our investigation. Your support is really appreciated.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police using the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of their website, or call 101, quoting log number NP-20230512-0350.
Read next:
- Mum left in fear of her blade-carrying Byker daughter after being stalked by her
- DWP list of 23 health conditions that qualify for over £300 a month in cash support
- Ant and Dec 'stepping back' from Saturday Night Takeaway as announcement leaves fans 'gutted'
- "I always knew she would kill her": Odessa Carey's brother says family begged for help before his mentally ill sister killed and beheaded their mum
- Everything Eddie Howe said on Brighton win, injuries, top four & more at Newcastle press conference
