TRIBUTES have been paid to a biker who died after a crash in Leigh - which has left the community in a state of shock.

Police were called to reports of a crash on Cliff Parade involving a blue Yamaha motorbike at roughly 6.35pm on Sunday.

The victim, a man in his 20s from Basildon, has been named locally as Rob Mansbridge.

Family and friends have since paid heartfelt tributes to him on social media.

The victim’s sister, Katie Mansbridge, praised her “cheeky” big brother.

She posted: “Rob had the biggest heart and was and still is loved by everyone, no one has ever said a bad word about him.

“He will forever be remembered as my annoying and cheeky big brother.

“I love you so freaking much.

“Thank you to his friends who stayed with him until the end.”

Essex Police is continuing to investigate and appeal for witnesses, with a white van seen leaving the area highlighted as key.

Concerns have been raised over road safety issues on Cliff Parade.

Councillor Andrew Wilkins, vice chairman of Leigh Town Council, said: “It’s a very sad accident and not one we want to see in Leigh.

“My thoughts go out to his friends and family.

“From my understanding residents have said there have been a number of close calls similar to what happened on Sunday and are surprised this hasn’t happened sooner.

“It very much is a wake up call for us all.

“The belvedere next to Leigh cliffs is very slowly land sliding.

“Drivers need to be very vigilant and take extra care.

“I have suggested that we get this implemented into council within the next few weeks.

“We want to try and make sure that we are doing something whether that’s just measuring or taking notes.”

Essex Police is urging anyone who witnessed the crash, has dash cam or CCTV, or saw the bike driving prior to the incident to come forward.

A police spokesman, said: “Officers worked quickly to speak to as many witnesses as possible at the scene but we’re aware that some people may have left before sharing their accounts.

“We are particularly keen to speak to someone who was driving a white van, which was seen to leave the scene shortly after the collision.

“We believe the driver and any passengers may be key witnesses, and we would urge them to get in touch.”

Call Chigwell’s roads policing unit on 101 with information.

The incident number to quote is 966 of August 30.

Anyone who can provide information anonymously can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555.