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.

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".