Tributes paid to popular rider

6:34pm Thursday 7th August 2008

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Tributes have been paid to a popular Oxford motorcyclist killed in a crash on the A4074.

Motorcyclist Gary Franklin, 40, of Quarry Road, Headington, died in a collision with a Ford Transit van between the Golden Balls and Berinsfield roundabouts at about 9.45am yesterday.

Mr Franklin was a member of Fox's Riders, a motorcycling group which meets at Fox's Diner at Berinsfield, near the spot where he was killed.

He worked as a salesman at JLM Car Sales, next to the diner in Oxford Road.

Today, flowers were laid at the scene and friends and members of Mr Franklin's family left words of tribute on this website.

A message from Mr Franklin's two daughters Sherri and Jasmin said: "Hi dad. Just wanted to say we miss you greatly and will love you forever. Our love always, your girls."

Kayleigh, one of three of Mr Franklin's stepchildren, said: "Gary was my stepdad for 15 years. His girls are distraught and cannot quite believe their dad has been taken in this way.

"The whole family are sticking together at this sad time. We all hope he is in a better place now."

One floral tribute laid by the roadside read: "RIP Gary. Missing you forever babe. Rock forever in heaven babe. Riding the ZZ R-6 for you everyday x. Rest easy Rock Boy. Keep smiling, love always The Bird and all at Fox's Diner."

Mr Franklin was riding southbound when the crash occurred. Witnesses should call police on 08458 505505.