SIMON MERRILEESPolice officer Simon Merrilees from Dunton Green in Kent died on 25 June, 2009, at the age of 30.He was involved in a road collision while riding his Suzuki motorbike on the A22 in Sussex.Residents of The Sidings, near Dunton Green railway station, said they were taken aback by the tragic death of their neighbour.Anna Webster said: "I am so shocked. I can't believe it – you don't expect it."I didn't see him very often, but when did see each other we used to say hello."He was friendly and polite."Another neighbour, Craig Bull, said: "He was extremely friendly."We'd always stop and make conversation."He was always on his bicycle and motorbike."Tributes have also been paid to Mr Merrilees, who originally lived in West Wickham, by his Bexley police colleagues.The force's chief inspector, Chris Hafford, said: "Simon was an enthusiastic and dedicated officer whose life has been cut short in tragic circumstances."Simon was not only a colleague, but a friend to many of us, and all of our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time."He will be sorely missed by everyone at Bexley Police."Mike Wheeldon, from Medway, was a close friend of Mr Merrilees and had shared a love of motorcycles with him.The two had studied engineering together at Fort Halstead between 1997 and 2000, and also attended Bromley College during that time.Mr Wheeldon said: "Everyone who met him got on with him to some degree."He had an infectious personality."
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