Family's heartbreaking tribute to young Northumberland dad after tragic death in motorcycle accident

James Ferguson, of Cramlington, passed away following a single-vehicle collision in Bomarsund, Northumberland, on Monday, April 13.

Known as Jimmy or Fergy to his friends, the ‘motorbike mad’ lad leaves behind his own young son Jimmy Eric Ferguson, who turns two today – Friday, April 7 – parents Marilyn Iley and William Ferguson, brothers Grant, Lee, Jack, Harry and Bailey and girlfriend Sinead Bell.

In a statement released by Northumbria Police, Jimmy's mum Marilyn paid tribute to her son – and also issued a stark warning to other bikers to stay safe on the roads.

She said: “He lived for what he called the ‘buzz’ of the bike, the feel of the power behind him.

“He was an amazing rider but his passion ended his life.

“Myself and my family are devastated. I have no words to the pain we are feeling, waking up each day now not seeing him covered in oil and being off out on the bikes.

“Jimmy would never have wanted me to issue a message to people to try to stop them enjoying their bikes - but I know he would now want me to say please stay safe.

“Always wear a helmet – like he always did, keep control of your bike and don’t think you can do things on these powerful machines that shouldn’t be done. Anyone can lose control at any time and could end up like he has.

“He will be missed by everyone who knew him. All his friends - Lewis Allen, Matty Dobison, Karl Weatherstone, Ed Coulson, John Dunwoody and Manny Burgo - said when he entered a room his smile lit up the whole place and they will never see that again.”

“I hope his death will send a strong message to young riders to please stay safe.”

The incident happened at around 1.55pm on Monday, and any witnesses were asked to contact Sgt Dave Roberts by emailing [email protected] quoting log 423 of 13/04/20.

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world.

But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you.