MOTORCYCLIST Peter Gordon who died in a crash on Monday may have swerved to avoid a toddler who ran out into his path.

Mr Gordon, 26, of Beech Avenue, Lane End, was killed in an accident at about 9pm in Holmers Farm Way, Cressex. His partner Louise Potter, was travelling in a car behind.

Moments before, a red Vauxhall Nova had collided with a 12-year-old girl on the same spot, at the junction of Redman Road and Holmers Farm Way. The girl suffered a fractured toe, bruising but four men in the car, who left the scene, have yet to be traced.

The toddler was crossing the road from Holmer Court in the direction of the accident when Mr Gordon collided with a road sign, say the police. Despite assistance from people there, Mr Gordon died of his injuries.

Mr Gordon, who leaves an eight-month-old son, Ryan, by his first marriage to Clair, lived with Miss Potter in Lane End.

Miss Potter said: "Peter was a devoted partner and father who will be missed wholeheartedly. He was like no other and was loved so deeply. He was an incredibly popular person and was very close to both our families."

Mr Gordon, originally from Malaysia, came to Britain in 1982. He worked at HMV's Europe head office in London as a computer software buyer and enjoyed biking and socialising with friends.

Miss Potter said: "I would like to thank everyone, both police and public, who helped me, particularly the residents of Holmer Court."

Police are keen to trace the family of the toddler as well as other witnesses.

Anyone with information can contact PC Richard Vine on 01494 465888