THE family of a man who died in a motorbike crash on the A127 have paid tribute to a wonderful father.

Robert Leonardi, 52, a father of three from Rochford, died on the Southend-bound carriageway near to the Mayflower Retail Park in Basildon.

An investigation is still under way following the crash on May 13, which shut the road for several hours.

Speaking for the first time since the tragedy, Mr Leonardi’s daughter, Yasmin, 23, from Westcliff, spoke of the fun-filled childhood Mr Leonardi had given her and her brothers, Adam, 28, and James, 27.

She said: “He had always been a big lover of bikes. We have so many pictures of him with his bikes. His favourite was his Harley Davidson. It was his pride and joy.

“He was an amazing dad. We had an amazing childhood but he was a bit of a child himself. He loved playing with toys and would spend a lot of time with us when we were youngsters. We can’t fault our childhood. He was a fantastic dad.

“He loved taking us to the park and doing things with us.”

Mr Leonardi also leaves behind his first wife Sharon who he had remained close to, and his partner of almost 11 years, Louise, 48.

The large family say Mr Leonardi’s death will leave a huge hole in their regular get-togethers.

Yasmin said: “He lived life to the full. He built exhibition stands for a living so I used to joke he was an exhibitionist.

He worked every day of the week and worked hard for things.

“His death has left a huge hole. He was still close to mum and being an Italian family we loved to get together for food. He loved being with his family.

He and Louise spent a lot of time doing their garden. If ever they had a day off they would spend it together.

“He had lots of friends and was very close to them. He loved all his friends. He loved meeting new people and he loved making people laugh. He lit up any room when he walked in.”

Anyone with information about the crash can the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 or email collisionappeal@ essex.pnn.police.uk An inquest into Mr Leonardi’s death has been adjourned until October 5 while