Man killed in crash was 'one of life's characters'

A motorcyclist who died in a crash was "one of life's great characters", his friends said.

Paul Gowlett, 58, from Houghton Regis in Bedfordshire, was involved in a crash on Dunstable Road in Caddington on 19 March and died at the scene.

His family said the motorcycle enthusiast would be "missed by many".

A man in his 40s arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving has been released on bail.

The crash involved a black Toyota Yaris and a silver Yamaha R1M, police said.

In a tribute, a family member said: "Paul will always be remembered for spending most of his time in the garage working on and rebuilding bikes and cars.

"Paul loved riding the open road with his friends on his motorbike. It was a tragic shock to his remaining family and he will be missed by many. Rest in peace, Paul.''

Gowlett, also known as Gadget by his friends, was described by a friend as a "huge part of the local motorcycling community".

His friend David from Flitwick Motorcycles said: "He would chat to anyone, and no-one ever had a bad word to say about him.

"He first came into our shop about 15 years ago and quickly became part of the fixtures and fittings - always laughing, joking and messing around - it was a happy occasion when Gadget came to visit."

Gowlett "didn't take life too seriously" but was "always there ready to help his friends," his friend said.

"He was truly one of life's great characters and a reminder not to judge a book by its cover," he added.

Police are appealing for anyone who saw the car or motorbike before the crash to get in touch.

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