The family of a man killed in Braintree after the bike he was riding collided with a truck have paid tribute to him.

Stephen Barnard, 56, of Byron Close, Braintree, died after his battery-assisted pedal bike was involved in a collision with an Iveco lorry just before 11.30am on Thursday at Pod's Brook Road on the Springfield Industrial Estate.

Mr Barnard, nicknamed Bert, was raised in Braintree and attended the Manor Street and Alec Hunter High schools.

Mr Barnard's nephew, Darren Barnard, 38, said: "He was very popular at work and his colleagues are devastated at what has happened."

His brother John, 61, said: "Bert used to like to do his own thing but was very generous and would help anybody. He will be greatly missed by everyone."

A 36-year-old truck driver from Colchester was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released on police bail pending further inquiries

Police have appealed for anyone with information on the incident to contact them on 01376 330722.

Published Wednesday, September 8, 2004

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