TRIBUTES have been paid to the motorcyclist who died after a crash in Penhill last night, named locally as 28-year-old Luke Chapman.

Flowers and candles were lit at the scene of the fatal crash where Luke's motorcycle collided with a Peugeot 208 as it pulled out at the junction of Durnford road and Penhill Drive last night.

Messages to remember the keen motorcyclist from Penhill, known as Lispy to friends, were written on cards and an England flag was tied to a nearby tree with marker pens for friends to pay their respects.

A Facebook group, R.I.P LISPY (Luke Chapman), was also set up and had attracted more than 250 members by Tuesday afternoon. Friends have also shared an image to use as a profile picture with a tribute to Luke and a moped rider standing on the back.

Sarah Jane Arnold wrote: “Sleep tight mate. Gone but never forgotten. You have been from us way to young. Fly high babe. R.I.P. My thoughts go out to his family.”

Donna Royal wrote on the page: “I was in Luke’s year at school, I’m still in shock. He was a great kid, he will be deeply missed by everyone. My thoughts are with his friends and family.”

Hazel Richardson wrote: "There was never a dull moment with you. You will be missed by so many people. Absolutely gutted and heartbroken your gone. Your riding in paradise now. Sleep tight sweet one, gone but not forgotten. Thoughts are with the family."

Friend Alex Robbie Day, who used to ride bikes alongside Luke, wrote to the Adver: "Luke was loved by everyone around Penhill and Pinehurst, it’s such a tragic the loss. We have all gained but we will never fail to remember Luke as a happy smiley young man with a beautiful family. May you have the best bed in heaven. #12oclockriplispy."

Penhill Drive was closed for more than four hours while collision investigators examined the scene and recovered the vehicles.

Some residents expressed concern at the level of traffic that comes down Penhill Drive and the lack of white road markings at the ends of Durnford and Corsham road. Although there are already traffic islands and a 20mph speed limit in place.

One resident on Penhill Drive, who did not want to be named, said: “It’s a rat-run, it’s dangerous down here. Cars just come racing down here. It’s so sad what’s happened.”

Police arrested the Peugeot driver, aged 24, and took him to Gablecross Police station for questioning on Monday night. They announced yesterday the driver has been released under investigation.

They are appealing for witnesses following the incident. which happened at around 8.00 pm. Anyone with information can call PC David Williams in the roads policing unit on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.