Family and friends of a motorcyclist killed in a collision involving a lorry, have paid tribute to a "funny man with an infectious laugh."

Shawnn Swaby of Elliot Road, Thornton Heath, was on his way to work when he was knocked from his motorbike on Roman Way at about 9.30am on Saturday morning.

Police, paramedics and London's Air Ambulance attended the incident, but the 38-year-old who worked as a financial advisor for Charterhouse Claims in South Croydon, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr Swaby's mum Doreen, was on her way home from shopping in the town centre when her daughter called about the accident.

She said: "I couldn't quite understand what she was saying. She was freaking out, she said the police were there and to get home quickly. I told her I couldn't because there was traffic everywhere and what was the problem.

"She said "oh mum the reason you are stuck in traffic is also why the police are here, Shawnn had an accident- they tried to save him."

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Shawn Swaby was travelling to work when the accident happened

All I could do was to compose myself and be strong until I got home. We are still in disbelief, on Saturday I thought he was going to come home any minute."

Paying tribute to her eldest son whose hobbies included ice skating and playing the drums, she added: "His laugh was so contagious.

"He would drop to his knees laughing and you wouldn't know what the joke was, but you would be laughing and would fall to your knees as well."

Mr Swaby's sister Dominique added: "When the police told me he had died they had to repeat it 10 times, it doesn't seem real. We still don't know what happened, but I think maybe the driver didn't see him.

"He always wore the full gear leathers, helmet, gloves and that Saturday morning I joked with him about it and he said it was in case he had an accident, that it would protect him and stop it being fatal- but obviously it didn't protect him."

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Shawnn Swaby with his sister Dominique

Friends have taken to social networking sites to pay tribute to Mr Swaby, who was an Arsenal fan.

Former colleague Kafayat Toks Timson, who worked with him at the former Wendy's Burger shop in North End, said: "I am going to miss his cheeky grin so much, he was a really nice guy- a character to work with.

"Shawnn had nothing but love and always had a hug ready for me. I can't believe I am not going to see him any more."

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Shawnn Swaby as a child

Another friend James, who owns Direct Image barbers in West Croydon said: "Shawnn was a funny person, he was always making jokes. He was the type of person that always phoned you no matter what. He was very loving and would always make sure you were ok."

Paying tribute to his close friend of 23-years who was nicknamed Cyclops because of big glasses he wore in the past, James said the accident was a real shock.

He said: "I was just with him on Thursday. Normally on a Saturday if he is going past on his bike he would beep or stop and come over and chat, but on Saturday he didn't come. I am going to miss him it's going to be hard, I can't believe it."

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Shawnn with his brother Andre

Another friend Trevor James said: "Shawnn was a hppy go lucky guy, always making you laugh and so caring. It is such a shock to know he has gone", while Nathan Purcell said: "My condolensces to Shawnn's family, he will be truly missed by many."

A memorial get together will take place at Dice Bar on Wednesday, November 20, from 5pm. Well wishers are asked to bring a small donation towards funeral arrangements.

Officers from the Met Police's Road Death Investigation Unit are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident to call 0208 285 1574 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


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