A motorcyclist who lost his life in a collision has been described as a “gentle giant” and family man.

Donald Ukwunnah died after his black Yamaha motorbike was in a collision with a grey Peugeot 2008 on the London Road in Stapleford Tawney, shortly before 4.25pm on Saturday, September 1.

The 38 year-old Romford resident was pronounced dead at the scene.

A statement released by his family read: “Donald was a British-born family man described by all who knew him as a gentle giant.

“He was a long serving bus driver for more than 17 years.

"An avid traveller, he enjoyed exploring different parts of the globe.

"He was also a loving father, son, brother and uncle.

“We would like to express our gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy and would appreciate if our privacy was respected at this difficult time.”

The Peugeot driver, a 78-year-old man, and his passenger, a 74-year-old woman, both from Romford, were taken to Queen’s Hospital.

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and ask any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage who have yet to come forward to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01245 240590 email CollisionAppeal@essex.pnn.police.uk