A “BIKE-crazy” mum who died suddenly in her home is set to be given the send-off she would have always wanted, with fellow riders taking to the streets in her honour.

Diane Thompson, who lived in Laindon for the past 40 years, has been described by her loved ones as one-of-a-kind – and was nothing less than a fighter.

Not only was the mum-of-two able to pursue her lifelong passion for motorbikes while caring for her children, but Diane also beat breast cancer, and was on her road to recovery.

But when neighbours hadn’t heard from or seen Ms Thompson for a few days, concerns were raised for her welfare.

After suddenly collapsing, the 59-year-old passed away on February 20, and was discovered dead in her home two days later.

Son Laurie Thompson says he feels his mum was taken too soon, but is determined to give her the send-off she deserves.

The 40-year-old from Basildon, said: “We still don’t know how it happened, but she just collapsed in the bathroom and never got up.

“Her neighbour had heard the water running and her phone going off, so actually had to break in to check on her. Mum lived on her own and wasn’t found until two days after.

“She had got over her cancer and was just getting back to normal. It was just so sudden, which was difficult.”

For her final journey, Diane will be leaving her home on Fonteyn Close in a trike hearse to Pitsea Crematorium followed by friends and family – along with Laurie, who will be riding her beloved motorcycle trike.

This will take place on April 16 at around 10am, with the family urging as many bikers as possible to get involved.

Laurie continued: “Mum has always been into bikes even in her early teens. It was actually how she met my dad. Her and her mate were in the car and spotted the bike he was on, and followed it to the pub where they got talking... and the rest was history.

“Even to this day we still have her leather biker jacket with badges on which she’s had as a teenager. When she got breast cancer she couldn’t ride for about two years. She kept motorbikes in the kitchen, living room and garden over the years.

“This was her lifelong passion, and I know she wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

“We really hope there’s a good turnout, and want to thank everyone in advance who is planning on attending.”