Manchester Evening News

Tragic crash biker was ‘kind and giving soul’

FAMILY PAYS TRIBUTE TO ‘LOVING AND DEVOTED’ MATTHEW WHO DIED AFTER COLLISION

- By HELEN JOHNSON helen.johnson@menmedia.co.uk @helenj83ME­N

THE family of a biker who died after an horrific crash say he was ‘the embodiment of love and devotion.’

Matthew Neill, 30, died a day after his motorbike was involved in a collision with a car in Stretford.

Now his sisters have paid tribute to their ‘kind and gentle’ brother, rememberin­g his infectious laugh and love of animals.

Speaking on behalf of their family, they said: “We called him baby brother and he called us little sisters, because while he was the youngest of us three siblings, he was the tallest, gentlest and most caring of us. Matt was often referred to as the best of both of us.

“He had a big laugh that was infectious to anyone around and could be heard by everyone around. He had a love of funny videos and pranks and of course hours were spent watching Mr Bean.

“Matt loved animals – he was a cat AND a dog person – he would house-sit for his friend, just so he could dog-sit too. He would always make sure he had enough treats for the beige and white Staffordsh­ire - even if it meant a daily ride to the shop for her.

“He wasn’t a dad yet, but he had all the qualities of making a great one! He taught his nephew how to tie his shoes, the best ways to avoid eating his veggies and that you never ever wore matching socks! “Our brother was the embodiment of love and devotion. A kind and giving soul who could fix your day with a big bear hug. He could lighten every day with a smile and his kind words. “Our family need to give thanks to all of the emergency care workers involved – from the first responders and ambulance staff, to police and the A&E teams and The family of Matthew Neill critical care unit of Salford Royal Hospital.”

Police were called to Winchester Road at around 4.25pm on Wednesday, July 25, to a collision involving a Yamaha motorcycle and a white Vauxhall Insignia. Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, Matthew died in hospital the next day. The driver of the Insignia stayed at the scene and assisted police with inquiries. No arrests have been made.

Sgt Lee Westhead, from GMP’s Serious Collision Investigat­ion unit, said: “My heart goes out to Matt’s family, I can’t imagine what they are going through.”

Anyone with informatio­n or dashcam footage can call police on 0161 856 4741, or Crimestopp­ers, anonymousl­y, on 0800 555 111.

 ??  ?? Biker Matthew Neill died after he was involved in a crash
Biker Matthew Neill died after he was involved in a crash

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom