A GRIEVING family have paid tribute to their son who died in a crash on the A132.

Joshua William Marlow, 22, from South Woodham Ferrers died after his motorbike was in collision with a Volkswagen Golf on the A132 in South Woodham Ferrers on Friday July 25.

Joshua, who was born in Basildon and attended St Margaret’s Church of England School in Bowers Gifford and King Edmunds in Rochford, was an apprentice mechanic who hoped to run his own business.

His family said in a statement: "He excelled in practical subjects, in particular woodwork, and whilst at the school received an achievement award for his efforts. He enjoyed mountain biking and stunt riding. From an early age he took a keen interest in mechanics.”

"He also developed a great interest in countryside sports, especially shooting. He pursued this mutual interest with his step-father from infancy.”

"At the time of his death he was an apprentice mechanic, soon to finish his training. He had said that he wanted to run his own business within this area of work.”

"Josh was taken too soon. He fought many battles in his younger years and overcame personal difficulties. He grew into being a happy, solid, hardworking, loving young man who touched the lives of many.”

Police were called shortly before 8.25am on Friday following reports of the collision and are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

A 45-year-old man from Wickham Bishops has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.

Anyone who witnessed the accident who has not yet spoken to police is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.