THE Andover community is mourning the loss of an exceptional young man who sadly died in a motorbike accident at the age of 20.

Ben Gibbins was a well-known figure in the town, having started his own business, Andover Motorcycles, on the Basepoint Business Park.

Sadly, he died when his motorcycle collided with a lorry on East Portway on April 12.

READ MORE: Motorcyclist, 20, dies after collision with lorry in Andover

His father, Mike Gibson, described Ben as "an amazing young man who achieved so much in his short lifetime".

Ben's love for motorcycles began at a young age.

He started helping out in the family business, a motorcycle shop, at the age of 12, and continued to work there after leaving school.

In 2022, Ben decided to pursue his dream of opening his own motorcycle shop, Andover Motorcycles, which became a huge success.

As part of his mission to involve more riders in the bike scene, Ben organised ride-outs on the first Sunday of each month, which drew more than 15 bikers each time.

Andover Advertiser: Ben GibbinsBen Gibbins (Image: Contributed)

They went to popular meeting places such as Loomies and Portsmouth, and Ben's infectious enthusiasm for riding inspired many others to take up the sport.

Ben's efforts did not go unnoticed, as all those who had the pleasure of meeting him had fond memories of the kind, determined, and passionate young man that he was.

Aside from his love for motorcycles, Ben was also passionate about raising awareness and money for Cancer Research.

Ben's family has now opened a fundraising page for Cancer Research in his honour, which has already raised £2,000.

SEE ALSO: Siblings raise thousands of pounds in Andover dad’s memory

His aunt has been baking cakes for the charity, raising over £1,000, and his cousin is doing a skydive to contribute to the cause.

Ben was also a member of Man V Fat in Andover, a council-funded scheme that promotes weight loss and fitness.

The group is holding a charity match on Sunday, May 21, where all proceeds will go towards Ben's charity page.

"We are very proud of Ben, as he impacted so many lives," said Mike.

"He was always putting so much effort into raising awareness for Cancer Research, and we hope that people will continue to remember his legacy by supporting his cause."

Although the family first decided to close down Ben's motorcycle business, his mum is now planning to run it to continue her son's dream.

Ben's funeral will be held at 11.30am on Tuesday, May 23. The service will be held at Christ Church Cove in Farnborough, followed by an after-party at the Snow Goose at 135 Fernhill Road, Farnborough, to celebrate Ben's life.

The family is asking people not to bring flowers, but instead, donate money to Cancer Research UK.

The family is also looking to hear from bikers who would like to take part in an entourage to help on Ben's last journey to the church.

The link for Ben's fundraising page is: fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/in-memory-of-our-special-son-ben

You can also contribute to the charity football match by visiting justgiving.com/page/ben-gibbins-1683708079438