TRIBUTES have been paid to a motorcyclist who died following a collision on the A38 near Tiverton on Monday, July 27.

Anthony Roberts (23), from Witheridge, was riding a Honda CBG 125 motorcycle when it was in collision with a fuel tanker near Burlescombe.

Emergency services were called at 8.30am and a third vehicle, a white Citroen C2, was also involved in the collision.

Anthony’s mother paid tribute to him and said: “My son has always loved life and lived it to the max.

“He has always been into motorbikes from a very early age and loved to ride his bike at every opportunity.

“Anthony was well-known and loved by all who knew him and his big brother Jason and sister Roxie are going to miss him so much.

“It has been overwhelming to see all the tributes on the social media sites and I’d like to thank everyone for their kind words and support at this very hard time.

“We will miss him so much. R.I.P. my beautiful son, sleep tight with the angels until I see you again.”

His girlfriend said: “He was my soul mate, my best friend and my rock. The kindest, most caring guy a girl could wish for, we adored each other.

“I can’t believe he has been taken so young but he must have been special to be wanted up there.

“R.I.P. my beautiful boy, I will never forget you and I cannot wait to hold you again. Sleep tight my angel, watch over me, I love you.”

The road remained closed all day while Devon and Cornwall Police Force Serious Collisions Investigation unit conducted an enquiry into the circumstances of the collision.

Police are keen for witnesses to the incident to get in touch, or anyone who may have seen any of the vehicles travelling on the road prior to the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on the 101 number or email: [email protected] , quoting log 121 of July 27.