A STOURPORT man killed in a motorbike crash has died before the birth of his first daughter.

Thomas Edwards, 23, of Lorne Street had already named his unborn baby Summer. She is due in August, with his girlfriend Danielle O’Connor.

Tragedy struck when Mr Edwards came off his black Yamaha motorbike on the A451 between Dunley and Great Witley at about 5.20pm on Friday. He then collided with a silver Landrover, travelling in the opposite direction. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Mr Edwards died at the scene.

The family of the “dedicated father” to little boy Charlie, from a previous relationship, described him as a “loveable rogue”, who was known as “Nut-Job” because of his zany personality.

His father Matthew and mother Sarah called him a “loving son”, who cared very much for his step-mother, Lisa, sisters Julie and Megan, and brothers Jamie and Tobias.

Mr Edwards worked abroad in Germany, Italy and France in the construction industry before spending a summer as a rep in Zante, Greece. His family have been touched by the countless messages they have received from all over the world.

Paying tribute, his family said: “Thomas was never work-shy or lacking confidence. He completed a catering course at Worcester, where his ability as a chef was highly commended.

“There was no such word as ‘can’t’ in Thomas’ vocabulary. He was a colourful character who lived life to the full. It goes without saying that he will be greatly missed by all his family and everyone who knew him.”

A statement from Stourport Sports Centre, where Mr Edwards went to the gym, said: “We are saddened by the loss of Tom Edwards. He was a member at our gym with many of his friends, our thoughts are with his family and this very sad time.”

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman revealed how five medics and two ambulance crews fought to save Mr Edwards: “A community first responder was driving home from work along the same road when he came across the collision involving the motorcyclist and a 4x4.

“He immediately stopped to help.

“He had his responder kit and defibrillator with him and immediately began to resuscitate the man. Also in the area and stopping to help were two off-duty district nurses and an off-duty consultant anaesthetist.

“They were joined by two rapid response vehicles, one driven by a BASICS Emergency Doctor from MARS (Mercia Accident Rescue Service), the other driven by a paramedic area support officer and two ambulance crews.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts in trying to resuscitate the man, he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

PC Nick Gimbert is investigating the circumstances of the collision. He said: “This was a tragic incident in which a young man lost his life, and our thoughts go out to Thomas’ family and friends.”

An inquest was opened and adjourned on Tuesday at Worcestershire Coroner’s Court.

Anyone who saw what happened should call police on 0300 333 3000, quoting 491S 110512.