Tributes to Wrexham motorcyclist Matthew James Gregory

Oct 1 2009 by Francesca Elliott, Wrexham Chronicle

THE funeral will take place tomorrow of a popular motorcyclist killed in an accident in Wrexham.

Matthew James Gregory has been described by those who knew him as ‘one of a kind’.

The 26-year-old died when his motorcycle crashed on the A539 between Hamner and Penley at about 3pm last Sunday, September 20.

Matthew, known as Matt, was the youngest of four children, and his parents Teresa and David, and his brother Mark and sisters, Jane and Lisa say they loved him dearly and are devastated by his loss.

Matt was a former pupil of St Mary’s Primary School, Overton-on-Dee, and later at The Maelor School, Penley.

His family say he was popular at school and remained close to many of his school mates.

For the last three years Matt worked as a plant operator for Hawk Plant Hire of Wem, and worked on many sites around the UK. He especially enjoyed the 18 months he worked on the 2012 Olympics site in London.

Matt’s family say they have gained considerable comfort from the support they have received from his friends and workmates and from all their friends, family and colleagues.

In a statement they said: “We would like Matt to be remembered for his cheery smile and willingness to help anyone out at a moment’s notice.”

Hundreds of people have also joined remembrance groups for Matthew on social networking site Facebook.

Tributes from friends and colleagues have been pouring in, describing him in turn as a ‘great friend’, ‘one of a kind’, ‘a star’, ‘a legend’, ‘a sweetheart’ and a ‘genuine and funny lad’.

There were numerous references to Matthew’s love of motorbikes.

His funeral will be held tomorrow (Friday) at Overton Church.