THE family of a motorcyclist who died after being struck by a car three days before Christmas have thanked their family and friends for their support.

Ric Oldham, 35 and from Whitchurch, died as a result of a crash on the B3400, near Hurstbourne Priors, at 5.40pm on December 22 as he travelled to work.

Today, his family said: "On Saturday, the 22nd of December, Ric tragically lost his life when [he was] involved in a road accident travelling to work.

"The loss of Ric has left us shocked and devastated. We'd like to thank all our friends and family for their heartfelt messages and support through this hard time."

Mr Oldham was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver of the Ford Focus involved in the crash, a man, and his female passenger, suffered minor injuries and were taken to Basingstoke hospital.

The road was closed in both directions while police carried out investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision.