A 17-year-old boy who died after losing control of his motorcycle has been remembered as a “fun loving student who had an infectious personality.”
Matthew Follen, from Old Coulsdon, died in Easy Surrey Hospital, Redhill, on Tuesday afternoon after the accident in Whyteleafe Road, Caterham at 4.25pm.
The motorcycle Matthew was riding crossed onto the wrong side of the road before striking a grass verge. He was thrown from the bike which then hit a tree.
He was rushed by ambulance to East Surrey Hospital in Redhill with serious head injuries where he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
Anthony Williams, Matthew’s former head of year at Coulsdon’s Oasis Academy, said: “Matt was a fun loving student who had an infectious personality.
“It will be hard to forget his cheeky smile and energetic manner. He was very popular within the year group and across the school. It is comforting to know that since leaving school, Matt made great strides in his chosen vocation and studies.
“He will be sorely missed and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”
Jude Wilson, Matthew’s form tutor for five years, said: “Matt was a lovely lad. Everyone seemed to know him. He was friendly, gentle and considerate to others.
“Above all, I’ll remember him for his great sense of humour – he was always game for a laugh, even if the joke was on him. He will be missed by all of us and my sympathies are with his family and friends.”
It is thought a number of people were around soon after the collision and police are appealing for those people to come forward.
In addition, anyone who may have witnessed what happened or the motorcycle being ridden prior to the crash are asked to contact the Surrey Police Collision Investigation Unit on 01483 639922 quoting reference p09289792.
Did you know Matthew or did you see the accident? Let us know in the comments section below or call the newsdesk on 020 8330 9558
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here