A HEARTBROKEN family has paid emotional tributes to a biker “with a heart of gold” following the verdict of his inquest.

Robert Kenward has been described by his family as a “hands on” man who loved riding motorbikes and being out with his friends.

An inquest into the 24-year-old’s death in Cliff Parade, Leigh on August 18 last year has concluded he died in a road traffic collision after losing control of his bike and hitting a lamppost.

Mr Kenward’s family told the inquest that he “died doing what he loved”.

Mr Kenward’s mother, Mandi Mansbridge, had her statement and tributes regarding her son read out by Area Coroner Michelle Brown.

She said: “He had a passion for life and bikes from a young age.

“At school he tried his hardest but was more of a hands on kid, he was diagnosed with asthma at a young age.

“He went straight to work repairing and spray-painting cars, he was very much a perfectionist in his role.

“Once he was on the bike there was no stopping him, he wasn’t into bars, clubs or parties.

“He had a group of friends that he rode about with. He had a heart of gold and was loved by many.”

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Ms Mansbridge said Mr Kenward had began suffering symptoms of heart problems at a previous Southend Shakedown event, collapsing as he got home.

Following trips to Basildon Hospital, he was then referred to another unit to have a mechanical valve fitted.

She continued: “One year later he was back on his bike, living his life. He was a son to be proud of, like all my children.

“He said he was going out for a ride. I stood at the back door and said ‘I love you son, be careful and be good’.

“An hour later I was told he had an accident.”

Michelle Brown said to the family: “He was someone who was loved and it was a tragic accident. He was doing something he loved.”

Ms Mansbridge replied: “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”