Family of biker killed in Peterborough collision makes emotional appeal to find his leathers

Michael Howard died following the crash on Bretton Way at the junction with Deerleap in Bretton on August 22, when a Saab collided with the motorbike he was riding.

Mr Howard - a father and grandfather, who was known as ‘Mikey’ and ‘Mad Dog’ - died at the scene.

Since his death, his beloved leathers and a drinking tankard have gone missing. The family believe the leather jacket was donated to The Salvation Army in Lincoln Road, but they said they never received them.

Michael’s sister, Ann, said: “I want to get the genuine waistcoat back as for every pin or patch that is on the cut, there is a story about the ride there or the antics during the event that will help to keep his memory alive for his children. His belongings are very precious to so many who were with him while he was at the events and to his family who can call on those memories for comfort.”

Michael had five children - Tamara, Ryan, Troy, Diesel and Mustang and two grandchildren - Noah and Scarlet.

Ann said his family had been ‘overwhelmed’ by the support they had received since the incident, with scores of bikers attending his funeral with a special ‘ride by’ as tribute.

She said; “My brother had a really big heart, he wasn’t perfect (but who is) but over the weeks since his death, we have been overwhelmed by the level of support received and the love that has been shown for him.

Mick Smith of East Anglian Bikers organised the “last ride” for us as a special send off for Mikey, it was such a tribute and we were honoured to have been a part of it, the noise of the bikes bought a tear for most of the family and friends present at his funeral.

“Mikey was loved by different communities, his earlier years was stock car racing and they paid tribute on their cars during bank holiday weekend and are organising a memorial event next year. The bikers organised an event on Wednesday at Guyhirn and many people have shared their sadness at the loss of a “great bloke” with us.”

Michael, from Burrett Road, Walsoken, Wisbech, was riding a grey Suzuki GSXR 750 K4 at the time of the incident.

Neville Smith (22), of no fixed abode, has pleaded not guilty to causing death by dangerous driving, and has been remanded into custody until a trial at Cambridge Crown Court on February 4 2019.

Anyone with information about Michael’s leathers of his tankard should contact the Peterborough Telegraph on 01733 588734 or [email protected]