Former Royal Mail postman died in Kawasaki motorbike crash

Chris Howard was on a blue Kawasaki motorcycle was fatally involved in a single vehicle crash on the Wantage Road north of Streatley near Wallingford.

The crash happened on April 24 and since then a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

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In a tribute, Mr Howard’s family said: “Chris was a much-loved brother, uncle, great uncle and cousin who lived life to the full.

“He was the third child of four, son of Colin and Maureen. Chris enjoyed a rural childhood, having fun in a village close to the River Thames.

Chris Howard (Image: Family handout)

“After completing A-levels at Henley college, Chris started work for Royal Mail as he wanted to buy a motorbike.

“Chris moved to post office counter roles and was then promoted to senior manager level.

“He was well-liked and respected as a leader and for his extensive knowledge of the business and spreadsheets.

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“Chris had experience of the counter business and his colleagues enjoyed tales of his trips abroad and of his taste in music.”

Mr Howard’s family added that he enjoyed being with people, eating “well” and drinking rare IPA brews.

“He retired early and was living the best life he’d planned,” they added. “This included gardening, holidays, our cats and motorbike trips to places like India and Albania.

“He’d recently volunteered with the local Camino group, as a coordinator and walker. He’d just raised over £1,100 for cancer research on the Portuguese route.

“Chris loved retirement and was content and happy. He never forgot a birthday and kept in touch with friends from all stages of his life.

“Chris made regular trips to visit his beloved family. He was self-assured, positive and caring. Chris was loved dearly and will be greatly missed by all his family and partner Hayley.”

Investigating officer police sergeant Rob Oliver-Clayson, of Thames Valley Police, issued an appeal for witnesses to come forward as part of the force’s investigation.

He said: “Firstly, I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family of the man who sadly died in this collision.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision, or the moments leading up to it, to please get in touch.

“If you saw anything, or have any information that may assist our investigation, please come forward. If you captured dash-cam footage, you can upload it to our dedicated online portal.”

Wantage Road is a rural, single-carriageway stretch which runs between Streatley in Berkshire and Blewbury in Oxfordshire, alongside the River Thames.