Witney motorcyclist dies in crash (From Witney Gazette)

Witney motorcyclist dies in crash

2:20pm Tuesday 21st March 2006 in Witney

A MOTORCYCLIST who died when his bike was involved in a crash with a pick-up truck is believed to be 25-year-old Witney man Neil Thacker.

An air ambulance was sent to the crash, which happened at about 1.15pm on Sunday, but Mr Thacker was pronounced dead at the scene.

A man in his 50s was arrested in connection with the incident, and released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Floral tributes to Mr Thacker have been placed at the scene of the crash.

The road was closed and diversions put in place until 6.10pm to allow accident investigators to examine the scene.

A spokesman for the Oxfordshire Ambulance Service said: "The helicopter was first to arrive.

"But the motorcyclist was not transported by air ambulance to hospital because he was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident."

He said the driver of the pick-up did not require medical treatment.

No one else was injured.

Police are appealing for witnesses, and would like to hear from anyone who saw the crash, but did not leave their details.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Kevin Payne, at Bicester Roads Policing Department, on 08458 505505, or Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555111.