Tributes to mum killed in collision (From Evesham Journal)

Tributes to mum killed in collision

8:06am Thursday 25th October 2012 in News

HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a Vale mother-of- three who was at the heart of community life.

Diana Burgess, aged 40, of Pershore Road, Hampton, died in a motorcycle crash on the A46 between Beckford and Ashton-under-Hill on Tuesday, October 16.

She was a well-known face in Hampton and was instrumental in setting up a village website and newsletter after she and her husband Kevin became aware of proposals for large housing developments in the area.

Town and county councillor John Smith said: “It is extremely tragic as she had three young children.

“It is a great loss to the community.”

Mrs Burgess died when the Kawasaki 650cc bike she was riding was involved in a crash with a car.

Her family said she had only recently taken up riding a motorcycle again and on the weekend prior to the fatal crash had completed a rigorous safety training course.

Mr Burgess said: “We are devastated by the sudden and tragic death of Diana who was a beloved wife and treasured mummy to her three princesses; five-yearold Hannah, Eva, aged three, and Emma, aged two.

“Diana had a zest for life and was renowned for her infectious laugh and vibrant personality.

“She was loved and treasured by all who knew her.”

Diana was born in Nijmegen in the Netherlands but moved to England in her early 20s.

She kept strong links with family and friends in her home country and was keen her three children should know and appreciate their heritage.

Mr Burgess said: “We feel privileged and blessed to have had Diana in our lives and we know she will be sadly and deeply missed by all whose lives were touched by her, including family and friends in both Holland and Evesham.

“We would like to thank all Diana's friends who have sent kind messages, wishes and prayers which have been of such comfort to us at this difficult time.”

• The driver of a Peugeot 308 involved in the crash – a man in his 40s from Bristol – was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and is on bail, pending further police inquiries.