'It's destroyed our family': Tributes paid to Hampshire bikers who died in crash

Andrew Cuthbert, a 58-year-old engineer from Bishop’s Waltham, and Gary Groves, 62, from Southampton, died after after their bikes collided with a Ford Fiesta Zetec at about 4.30pm on Sunday in the B3035 Corhampton Lane.

The 17-year-old driver of the Ford, from West Meon, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by driving without due care and consideration while over the specified drug limit. He has been released under investigation as police enquiries continue.

Andrew’s mother, Mary Marsh, has led tributes to her ‘wonderful’ son.

‘Andy was an absolutely wonderful person,’ the 79-year-old said.

‘He worked all his life, taking overtime whenever he could, and was such a kind man – he always made time to see me, take me to lunch and so on.

‘He was hard-working, he was caring, but above all he was my son. I just can’t believe he’s gone, I miss him terribly.’

In a statement, Gary’s family said: ‘Gary was the most loving husband, dad, grandad, brother, uncle, work colleague and treasured friend to many.

‘He touched the hearts of so many people, the room would light up wherever he went.

‘Gary will forever be with us and in our hearts.

‘Heaven has gained the biggest angel but we have lost ours, but know he will be looking over us forever’

Andrew was riding an Indian FTR motorcycle, which he bought a month ago, when the incident happened.

Mrs Marsh says he bought the bike because he wanted something with ‘better brakes’ than the Harley-Davidson he owned at the time.

‘I suppose they were just in the wrong place at the wrong time,’ Mrs Marsh said.

‘We’re all finding it difficult to understand how something like this can happen.’

Popular biker cafe Loomies on the A32 has also paid its tributes to the bikers.

A spokesman said: ‘It is sad to hear of the loss of two fellow bikers. Our thoughts are with their families during this difficult time.’