Tributes have flooded in for a much-loved Worcester businessman who has died in a crash.

Heartbroken friends, family and co-workers have paid their respects to Marlon Vella, who died on Monday when his motorbike crashed into a tree in Droitwich.

The popular 21-year-old was well known in the community. He owned a barbershop called VellaCutz in Fernhill Heath.

Mr Vella’s sister, Nataya Vella, posted a heartfelt statement on Facebook. She wrote: “My Marley. I can’t believe you’re gone.

"You were my protector, the person who always made me feel safe, you are my big brother and always will be.

"I wish I got to say I love you one more time. This is not goodbye Marlon, because you will be with me forever.

"I hope you rest in the most beautiful paradise surrounded by everything you want. Until we meet again, I love you.”

Laura Churchill, who went to school with Mr Vella, also paid tribute to him:

“Rain all day, it’s almost like the world knew of the loss of such a loved member in society," she wrote yesterday.

"Marlon showed us all, no matter where you come from, anything is possible if you work hard and never give up.

“One of the only people I know who made his dreams a reality at such a young age; a business owner of a barbers, successful and yet still so humble.

"Marlon lit up a lot of people’s lives, will never be forgotten and always remembered for that cheeky smile.

"It was a pleasure to have known you, you’ve shown us all, anything is possible and to follow our dreams.”

The fatal crash happened at around 4pm on Monday in Primsland Way, Droitwich.

Police said an officer was travelling in a marked police car to an emergency when a Yamaha scooter, travelling ahead of them in the same lane, collided with a tree.

The 21-year-old was sadly pronounced dead at the scene and the road remained closed for around six hours whilst the emergency services, including the police helicopter, responded to the incident.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The man was found in a serious condition and ambulance staff immediately began administering advanced life support.

“However, sadly it became apparent nothing could be done to save him and he was confirmed dead at the scene.”

Superintendent Steph Brighton said: “We are aware that there is some natural speculation in the community surrounding the circumstances of this incident and the proximity of a police car.

“The officer was responding to a separate incident at the time. However, due to the proximity of the police car, we have referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, as is standard practice.

“We cannot even begin to imagine how difficult this is for the young man’s family and our thoughts are with them and his friends.”

A fundraiser was set up to cover Mr Vella’s funeral costs yesterday and within hours over 200 people had donated and just under £3,000 had been raised as the Worcester News went to print last night.