Tributes have been pouring in for a much-loved motorcyclist and passionate carp angler who tragically lost his life in a collision in Leigh-on-Sea on Saturday evening.
Friends, family and fellow anglers have described 56-year-old Jon Mac – known affectionately as “Carpy” – as a true character and one of life’s good guys.
Mike Willmott wrote: “RIP old friend, you were a ‘one off’ for sure.”
Matt Eaton added: “Anyone that knew him will feel poorer for his passing but richer from having met him. RIP mate.”
Scott Grant said: “He was a larger than life character, always up for a laugh, always ready to help and a fantastic angler. R.I.P. mate until we meet again.”
Fishing magazine Talking Carp also paid tribute: “Jon was a proper old school angler with a passion for carp that could not be surpassed. If you ever had the chance to meet Jon you know you were talking to a true carp angling gent.”
Other friends and locals have also spoken out. Gary Lowe said: “Jon was one of the good guys, he lived life to the full. RIP my friend.”
Matthew Foster wrote: “He was local and rode along London Road literally more times than I’ve had hot dinners. So sad. Goes to show no matter how good you are there’s always dangerous drivers.”
The fatal collision on London Road in Leigh
The fatal incident happened near the junction with Burnham Road, at around 7pm on Saturday 6 September. A motorcycle and a car were involved in the crash.
Paramedics rushed to the scene, but despite their best efforts Jon sadly died at the roadside. Police confirmed his family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
A 54-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He remains in custody while enquiries continue.
London Road was closed while officers carried out investigations but has since reopened. Police have already spoken to a number of witnesses and are urging anyone with information, dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward.
Anyone with details should quote incident 1112 of Saturday 6 September when contacting Essex Police. Reports can be submitted online on their website, via their Live Chat service, or by calling 101. Anonymous reports can also be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Motorcycle fatalities in Essex and the UK
The tragedy has added to growing concerns about motorcycle safety across Essex and the wider UK. According to Department for Transport figures, motorcyclists are disproportionately at risk on the roads – making up around 1% of road users, but accounting for nearly 20% of all fatalities.
In Essex alone, dozens of bikers are killed or seriously injured each year. Campaigners regularly highlight the need for drivers to take extra care, particularly on busy routes like London Road, where visibility and traffic conditions can change quickly.
Local residents say the number of serious motorcycle crashes in and around Southend in recent years is deeply worrying, and are calling for drivers to be more alert to bikers.
Rayne Hill added: “This is so sad. Too many bikers are getting killed by dangerous drivers recently. Everyone wants to get home safe – please watch out for bikers.”