Motorcyclist dies in smash (From Warrington Guardian)

Motorcyclist dies in smash

GRIEVING parents have shared their memories of a multi-talented sportsman who died following a road accident.

Anthony Keen, of Ash Grove, Rode Heath, died after the multi-coloured Honda motorcycle he was riding was in collision with a dark-coloured Chrysler people carrier on the A34 Newcastle Road in Talke Pits.

The 28-year-old was taken to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, where he died from his injuries.

Anthony was born in Congleton War Memorial Hospital, and at eight weeks old went to live in Zambia and the Solomon Islands with his parents, Richard and Anne, and brother Simon.

He returned to Rode Heath in 1981, and later went to Alsager Comprehensive School, where he showed exceptional sporting and athletic talent.

After finishing college in Crewe, Anthony entered into a range of jobs, his last being at Bentley Motor Cars in Crewe.

Proud parents Richard and Anne said Anthony would be keenly missed by his family and friends.

Richard said: "Anthony was part of a close knit family, and they and his wide circle of friends will miss him dearly.

"Anthony was Cheshire cross country champion, and played football for South Cheshire and Crewe Alexandra boys.

"As a young adult, he transferred his interest to rugby union, where he played for Sandbach, Linley and Newcastle clubs.

"We would like to thank the police and ambulance crew, and all the staff and North Staffs trauma unit who did all they could to help Anthony."

Police want to speak to two drivers in connection with the accident in which Anthony was killed.

The accident occurred near the Harecastle Farm pub in Talke Pits as Anthony was travelling from Newcastle towards Talke at around 6.55pm on Friday.

Police believe the Chrysler people carrier and a light-coloured Land Rover had both stopped in the road to allow a dark-coloured car to perform a U-turn in the carriageway.

The driver of the people carrier stopped, but the Land Rover and dark-coloured vehicle left the scene, and police are appealing for their drivers to get in touch.

Members of the public who may have witnessed the incident are asked to contact PC Stephen Crundell at Newcastle Police Station on 08453 302010.