Tributes have been paid to a teenager with “the biggest heart” who tragically died following a collision earlier this week.

James Dixon was riding a motorcycle on Stockerley Lane, near Lanchester, in the early hours of Tuesday morning when he collided with a dark-coloured BMW 5 Series that was travelling in the same direction.

The 18-year-old was taken to hospital with serious injuries, but sadly died later that day surrounded by his family.

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The Northern Echo: James Dixon was riding a motorcycle on Stockerley Lane, near Lanchester, in the early hours of Tuesday morning James Dixon was riding a motorcycle on Stockerley Lane, near Lanchester, in the early hours of Tuesday morning (Image: Durham police)

“We are heartbroken at the loss of our James,” they said. “It’s no secret that James was no angel, but he had the biggest heart.

“He was known as the ‘Best Uncle’ by his nieces and nephews who all absolutely adored him.

“He’d always offer his help to anyone who needed it, even if he was struggling himself. He was a cheeky chappy with an eye for the ladies.

“Words cannot explain how much we will miss him; our hearts will be forever broken. Rest in peace James.”

The collision happened at 4.45am near Hurbuck Cottages, Lanchester. Both the motorcycle and BMW were travelling towards Consett.  

Police would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision, or who saw the motorcycle – a Keeway Superlight – prior to the incident.

Anyone who can help is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 53 of October 4.