Family pays tribute to 'deeply loved' motorcyclist

A motorcyclist who died in a crash near Winchester was "deeply loved" and had a lifelong passion for riding, his family has said.

Toby Parker died at the scene of the crash involving a silver Nissan X-Trail and a blue Suzuki motorcycle on A272 between Rodfield Lane and Owslebury on 18 February shortly after 18:00 GMT.

Paying tribute, his family said the 24-year-old from Hythe "absolutely loved motorcycles - riding them, fixing them, talking about them, living and breathing them."

Police have urged witnesses or motorists who may have relevant dashcam footage to get in touch.

His family said he "had already packed more passion and personality into his life than many do in a lifetime".

They added: "He was happiest working at South Downs Motorcycles, where he spoke so proudly about the team and the work he did. He truly loved being there, and it showed.

"Toby was funny, cheeky, loving, thoughtful, and fiercely loyal. He was the kind of son who gave the biggest bear hugs and lit up every room he walked into. He had so many friends because people were drawn to his warmth, his humour, and his huge heart.

"He was deeply loved by his family and will be missed beyond words by all of us who knew and loved him.

"The world feels a little darker without him in it, but we will carry his light with us always."

You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X, or Instagram.