TRIBUTES have been to a much-loved Southampton man who died in a tragic crash at the city docks.

Lee Early was cycling to work when he was involved in a crash with a lorry in Western Avenue.

The 54-year-old of Gove Road was pronounced dead at the scene following the incident shortly after 6am on November 11.

His family have now come forward to pay their respects.

In a joint statement issued today, they said: “Lee was a very much loved fiancée, stepdad, brother, uncle and great uncle who has sadly been taken away from us all in the most tragic way.

“He will be forever loved and stay forever in our hearts.”

A 28-year-old man from Dudley was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

An inquest into Lee's death was opened last week by area coroner Jason Pegg at Winchester Coroner’s Court.

Mr Pegg said: “Mr Early was cycling to work from his home address when he collided with a heavy goods vehicle.”

The hearing was told that Mr Early was identified by a police officer by comparison with a tattoo he had.

A post mortem carried out by pathologist Dr Vipul Foria gave the cause of death as severe head injury.

Mr Pegg adjourned the hearing for a review to take place on May 30, next year, as police are currently investigating the incident.

However, police are still pleading for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: "Were you in the area at the time? Do you have dashcam footage of the incident?

"Contact us on 101 or report online, quoting 44210452604."