Police biker dies in tragic road smash
RESIDENTS in Dunton Green have spoken of their shock at the sudden death of a popular police officer from the village.
Simon Merrilees, 30, died after his Suzuki motorbike was in collision with a Vauxhall Astra on the A22 in Sussex last Thursday.
-
Simon Merrilees(2)
Police are investigating the circumstances of the collision, which happened at 3.06pm on the Boship roundabout.
Residents of The Sidings, near Dunton Green railway station, said they were taken aback by the tragic death of their neighbour, whose Ford Mondeo is still parked outside the block of flats where he lived.
Anna Webster said: "I am so shocked. I can't believe it – you don't expect it.
"I didn't see him very often, but when did see each other we used to say hello.
"He was friendly and polite."
Another neighbour, Craig Bull, said: "He was extremely friendly.
"We'd always stop and make conversation.
"He was always on his bicycle and motorbike."
Tributes have also been paid to Mr Merrilees, who originally lived in West Wickham, by his Bexley police colleagues.
The force's chief inspector, Chris Hafford, said: "Simon was an enthusiastic and dedicated officer whose life has been cut short in tragic circumstances.
"Simon was not only a colleague, but a friend to many of us, and all of our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.
"He will be sorely missed by everyone at Bexley Police."
Mike Wheeldon, from Medway, was a close friend of Mr Merrilees and had shared a love of motorcycles with him.
The two had studied engineering together at Fort Halstead between 1997 and 2000, and also attended Bromley College during that time.
Mr Wheeldon said: "Everyone who met him got on with him to some degree.
"He had an infectious personality."
Speaking of the general reaction to Mr Merrilees' death, he said: "You will find with most motorcyclists in general that it is an accepted risk we all take.
"It's a dangerous pastime.
"Certainly, the friends I have passed the news on to have been very upset, but it is accepted that these things do happen."
Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision to call 0845 607 0999, quoting "Operation Burley".
6 Comments
by Chris, Tunbridge Wells
Saturday, July 11 2009, 8:19PM
“God bless you Simon.”
by Inspector Michael Hawney, Peckham Police Station
Saturday, July 11 2009, 3:11PM
“Simon, you were one of lifes characters - once met never forgotten. From the first time we met, you stood out; so full of energy and mischievous fun. You were a kind person always willing to help, especially if the problem needed an engineer's eye (my broken fishing alarms and dodgy campervan electronics spring to mind) As a fellow motorcyclist I understand the risks involved, but also understand the thrill and sense of freedom that only bikes can offer. Your loss is tragic for everyone you have left behind, not least of all your family and long time girlfriend, Amelia. As a biker though, I know you died doing somehting you truly enjoyed. Rest in peace matey. Mick”
by carol, sevenoaks
Saturday, July 11 2009, 1:22AM
“god bless you young man,gone too soon x”
by Ian Hadley, Blackfen.
Saturday, July 04 2009, 1:48PM
“He had such a cheerful and outgoing personality. There can¿t be many people without a smile on their face after having spoken to him.”
by Richard Briggs, Tonbridge
Thursday, July 02 2009, 5:16PM
“I had the privilage of being Simons' (Buzby) boss for the last three years of his time at Fort Halstead. There is a great sense of loss and sadness felt at the Fort by all those who knew him.
He was a brilliant colleague and good friend to the few of us privileged to have worked and played with him. His effervescent character and infectious cheeky smile is something I shall always treasure. His move, a few years ago, into the Met Police was a big loss for me, however it was obvious that it was the right move for him. In spite of his move we kept in touch via email and text as well as meeting up each Xmas.
His untimely death has come as a great shock to us all and on behalf of my colleagues and friends extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his partner and family”
by Lloyd, sevenoaks
Thursday, July 02 2009, 2:17PM
“i didnt know simon very well, my good friend was his flate mate and so i spoke to simon from time to time. He read the books that i read, played the games that i played and i have a bike so we obviously had alot to talk about. He was a very nice guy and over the last 2 months i found he was always full of jokes and allways told me to grab a beer when i came by. im still a little shocked by his death, its made me question my own bike. i wish his family, girl friend and friends my sincere condolences.”