Bike tragedy: Tributes to Lewis Monks (From Dorset Echo)

Bike tragedy: Tributes to Lewis Monks

11:30am Monday 11th June 2012 in Local News By Samantha Harman

TRIBUTES have been paid to a talented Weymouth teenager who lost his life in a collision.

Former Budmouth Technology and Weymouth College student Lewis Monks, aged 19, was tragically killed in a crash involving a bus on Friday afternoon.

Dozens of floral tributes have been left at the scene of his death on Newstead Road, near Asda, close to the Boot Hill junction.

Lewis, who is believed to have been cycling alongside two other teens on Friday afternoon, died after emergency teams and witnesses battled in vain to save him.

Parts of a bike have been tied to the fence near the tributes in honour of the popular youth who was ‘the best BMX rider in the county’.

An event in Lewis’s memory will take place on Friday at Banus nightclub on The Esplanade in Weymouth.

Family friend Dean Dewland told of the shock at Lewis’s death and said the event was a chance to honour the popular 19 year old.

He said: “It is such a big shock to the town.

“I still can’t believe it.

“Lewis was very popular and such a great person.

“The event will be a chance for everyone to pay their respects.”

The event will run from 10pm until 4am for over 18s only. It will feature music in Lewis’s taste and many local MCs as well.

Admission will cost £3 with proceeds for the family.

A book of condolence will be available to sign on the night.

Lewis was a well-known figure at The Front Skate Park, on Preston Beach Road, where he had been riding BMX since it opened.

He secured sponsorship and represented the club in many BMX competitions, also going on a tour of America as a youngster and appearing on television.

Volunteers and skaters at the The Front described him as ‘always smiling’ ‘extremely talented’ and ‘a great lad’.

They said that as he got older, Lewis became more interested in music and being an MC, something at which he was ‘brilliant’.

One note at the scene near Asda reads: “To Lewis, you are going to be missed by everyone. Keep spitting beats wherever you are.”

Another says: “I will miss you so much you brought me laughter...and tears. Forever in my heart.”

Another reads: “In the couple of years I knew you, you always made me smile.

“It was a pleasure and an honour to know you.”

Meanwhile, one mourner had written: “RIP mate the kettle is always on”.

A portrait of Lewis is tied to a lamppost, with a photograph of him fishing and bottles of his favourite drinks placed at the scene.

On Twitter, Mike Toman said: “RIP Lewis Monks, a top lad and great guy.

“The sun is shining today while half of Weymouth remembers all things great about you.”

For more information about the night at Banus, go online to website facebook.com/events/332134666862686/