Tributes paid to 'passionate' and 'dedicated' Royal Navy veteran killed in M27 crash

Tribute paid to Royal Navy veteran

A motorcyclist who was killed in a crash on the M27 has been described as a ‘devoted’ husband and father as his family pay tribute to him.

Tributes have been paid to Richard Skilton from Gosport who was killed in a crash on the M27. placeholder image
Tributes have been paid to Richard Skilton from Gosport who was killed in a crash on the M27. | Contributed/ Hants Police

Police were called at 6.39am on Friday, October 16 to a report of a single-vehicle crash on the eastbound carriageway between junctions 11 and 12, involving a black and white Triumph motorcycle.

Tributes have been paid to Richard Skilton from Gosport who was killed in a crash on the M27.placeholder image
Tributes have been paid to Richard Skilton from Gosport who was killed in a crash on the M27. | Contributed/ Hants Police

Despite a significant emergency response, the biker - 66-year-old Richard Skilton - was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family has paid tribute to him. They said: “Richard Skilton, of Gosport, is remembered as a devoted husband, loving father of five and proud grandfather of ten with another on the way that he will unfortunately never get to meet.

“He completed a full career in the Royal Navy, dedicating many years of his life to serving his country. A passionate motorcycle enthusiast, Richard will be remembered for his love of family, his naval service and the memories he leaves behind.

“He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and all who knew him, and his memory will live on with love, pride and respect.”

The police continue to ask anyone with information about this collision to contact police on 101, quoting 44260508127.

For more information about the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, click here.

News you can trust since 1877
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice