A community has been left in shock as tributes are paid to a 57-year-old motorcyclist who died in a crash that took place near a major roundabout over the bank holiday weekend.

Emergency services rushed to the junction of Middleton Stoney Road and Empire Road in Bicester after a man riding a red motorcycle was killed in a collision with a black Mercedes Sprinter van on Monday (May 27).

Eyewitnesses saw marked and unmarked police cars, two ambulances and a helicopter following the incident that took place at around 9.40am.

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The community has been reflecting on the loss as Thames Valley Police has launched an investigation into the incident.

Town councillor for Bicester North Rachel Mallows said: “I am extremely saddened to hear of this tragic loss and send condolences to the gentleman’s family and friends.

“In the long term, I hope there is some learning that can be taken from the investigation to help improve road safety for all.”

Oxford Mail: Responding to the news, Bicester householder Claire Chevin said "So so very sorry" while Vanessa Mundy added: "Rest in peace".

Another commenter added: "Terrible news. Thoughts with the family of the motorcyclist."

Thames Valley Police confirmed the driver of the van was not injured.

The force added it is looking for the drivers of two particular cars, who were not involved but may have witnessed the incident.

Detective Constable Naomi Hames from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “I am appealing to anybody who was in the area of Howes Lane, Vendee Drive and Middleton Stoney Road at or around 9.40am on Monday and who may have seen a motorcycle on or leaving Vendee Drive to get in touch with police.

“I’m particularly keen to hear from anybody who has dash-cam or helmet-cam to please check this if you were in these areas at the time.

“I would also particularly like to speak to the drivers of two particular cars, who were not involved, but may have witnessed some of the incident.

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“These vehicles are a dark-coloured estate, similar to an Audi A4 and a grey SUV, similar to a Toyota Rav 4.

“Both of these cars were travelling behind a white van at the time of the incident.

“If you were a driver or passenger in either of these cars, please make contact with Thames Valley Police.”

The spokesperson added: “Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died, and they are being supported by specially trained Family Liaison Officers at this time.”

Lissa Paterson, who lives nearby, said she did not see the incident itself, but saw emergency services in the area at around 10am following the crash.

She said: "I live nearby and suddenly heard and saw lots of police sirens, marked and unmarked cars, police bikes, two ambulances and a helicopter landed by the Menu Partners' factory.

"This started around 10am, the helicopter had taken off and ambulances were left without lights on but there were still lots of police on the roadblock.

"We heard dogs too but didn’t see them." 

If you witnessed or have any information about the incident you can contact Thames Valley Police by submitting a report on their website or by calling 101, quoting reference number 43240246859.