A young motorcyclist who died in an accident on Boxing Day has been remembered for his infectious smile and tireless work ethic.

Philip Benjamin James was killed in a road crash near the junction of Middle Road and Khyber Pass in Warwick when his bike collided with a car travelling in the opposite direction. The 21-year-old, from Southampton, was rushed to hospital after the accident but succumbed to his injuries.

Mr James, who had been studying abroad, had been a valued member of staff at the Warwick Lindo’s supermarket for many years.

“Ben worked here since he was a packer boy and rose up through the ranks,” said Zach Moniz, manager of the Lindo’s Group of Companies.

“He has been off at university for the last couple of years and would return to work at each school break. We miss him terribly. He was one of those kids who if you asked him to jump he would ask how high. He had an infectious smile that will be my lasting memory of him.

“We are still in a state of shock and disbelief trying to reconcile it. We are comforted though to know that God has a plan and he will work that plan out until it is complete.”

Police have urged any witnesses to the crash who have not yet come forward to contact the Roads Policing Unit on 247-1230.