A BELOVED dad tragically died when his motorbike was involved in a crash with a Fiat turning into a farm in Billericay, an inquest has heard.

An inquest into the death of Mitchell Walker, 35, on July 27 opened at Essex Coroner’s Court yesterday.

Mr Walker, who had recently become a father, died at the scene of the crash in Botney Hill Road, Billericay, the inquest heard.

The court heard Mr Walker was travelling in the same direction as the Fiat 500 when the collision took place at 8am.

He died from abdominal injuries about an hour later.

Issuing a statement through Essex Police last week, Mr Walker family described him as “much-loved” by his whole family.

A spokesman for the family said: “Mitch was a much-loved son, brother, partner and a recent dad, who was taken away far too early at the age of 35.

“He had recently found his place in life with a challenging job role he absolutely loved and was much respected by colleagues.

“He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, RIP.”

Coroner Michelle Brown oversaw the short hearing yesterday morning after a full post-mortem examination was undertaken by Dr Virginia Fitzpatrick-Swallow.

Mrs Brown formally suspended the inquest for four weeks for a toxicology report to be prepared and for police to carry out further enquiries.

Mrs Brown said: “Dr Virginia Fitzpatrick-Swallow carried out a post-mortem and confirmed the cause of death was 1A abdominal injuries, pending further review of notes with toxicology to be taken.

“Enquiries are suspended whilst police investigate.

“I formally suspend this inquest for four weeks.”

The police investigation continues into the crash. No arrests have been made at this stage.

Anyone who was in the area between 7.30am and 8am on July 27 should contact the force with any information or dashcam footage, and quote incident number 283.