A BIKER, who lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a stone wall, died doing what he loved, his family said.

Tributes have been paid to Grant Small, who died in the early hours of Friday, riding in Longworth Road, Egerton.

His bike hit a wall after he lost control on a slight left-hand bend, police said.

The 22-year-old former Turton High School pupil from Bromley Cross was pronounced dead at the scene.

It is understood that a passer-by found Mr Small lying in the road and that police want to establish the precise circumstances which led to his death.

Mr Small’s parents Julie and Peter said: "In the early hours of the morning, while doing what he loved most, our beautiful fun loving son was taken from us. RIP my beautiful boy.

"There are no words to express how much we loved you and how greatly you will be missed by all whose lives you touched.”

Mr Small leaves behind his parents and two sisters Sammi and Gemma.

Hundreds of tributes were paid to Mr Small online, many referencing his passion for bikes.

His girlfriend Zoe Charnock described Mr Small as a "true friend and amazing boyfriend".

Friend Declan Kerr said: "I really don't know what to say, you were my best friend, practically my brother.

"We did so many great things together and there were so many things yet to do.

"I can't even describe how much I will miss you. But I am sure we will meet again and until then goodbye and RIP brother."

There is no suggestion that another vehicle was involved and police are not investigating the incident as a criminal offence.

If anybody saw the accident — at 12.10am — they are asked to call police.

PC Lee Campbell said: “This is a tragic incident in which a young man has sadly lost his life and my sympathies remain with his family at this time.

"An investigation into how the accident occurred is already under way and we are appealing for any witnesses to the collision to contact us on 101.”

Anyone with any information about the crash is asked to call Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log number 0009 of Friday 20 March.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.