The family and friends of a motorcyclist who died after a crash in Shropshire have today paid tribute to a “loving and family-orientated” man with “a heart of gold”.

Father-of-one Richard Smallwood, of Admaston, in Telford, died in hospital on May 4, a day after the keen biker was involved in a three-vehicle collision on the B4394 near to the Atcham Industrial Estate.

The 36-year-old was a member of the Wrekin Riders Motorcycle Group.

His family, including partner of eight-and-a-half years Cheryl, said they had been overwhelmed with support from friends, family and the Wrekin Riders.

Cheryl said: “He was loved so much. He had a heart of gold and was such a loving and caring father. He was one special person and the family are completely devastated by his loss.”

“He would help anybody without a thought for himself,” the family said in a statement.

Trevor Trueman, from Wrekin Riders, paid tribute to his close friend, saying: “It’s more like losing a brother than a friend.”

Mr Smallwood, who had a daughter Jade, was born in Birmingham and moved to Telford with his family 15 years ago.

He had been working at Toys R Us for the last four years as a shop assistant, where colleagues described him as “a gentle giant with a heart of gold”.

Mr Smallwood previously worked in school security and care work.

Despite moving to Shropshire, he remained close to old school friends living in other parts of the West Midlands.

He had recently taken part in the “Soggy Doggy” motorbike run to raise money for Hillbrae Dogs Home.

The riders group had planned a motorcycle run from Lands End to John O’Groats to raise money for a disabled child in Cannock. The event will now take place in Mr Smallwood’s memory.

As well as biking, Mr Smallwood was a keen golfer and fan of all motorsport, especially Formula 1.

His funeral is due to take place on Saturday at noon.