Motorcyclist killed in crash was 'gentle giant'

Gaz Lavender, 43, died in a crash while riding his motorbike in Rugeley

A motorcyclist who died in a crash was a "kind, gentle giant" who was "full of life", his family have said.

Gaz Lavender, 43, was riding a blue Yamaha motorcycle when he collided with a blue Volswagen Transporter on the A460 in Rugeley, Staffordshire, at about 07:30 GMT on 5 December.

Emergency services were called but he was pronounced dead at the scene, Staffordshire Police said.

Paying tribute to Mr Lavender, his family said: "Gaz was a kind gentle giant, full of life. He was incredibly funny and loved by all who knew him.

"His passion for music and motorbikes is unmatched. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten."

A police spokesperson said officers were supporting the family and were keen to speak to anyone who was travelling in the area at the time of the crash.