DOZENS of motorcyclists gathered at the spot a father was killed in a crash in tribute to their friend.

Shocked witnesses have spoken of the moment a van and motorcycle burst into flames in a horrific accident which claimed the life of biker Ronnie Sheehan.

Mr Sheehan, 36, was pronounced dead at the scene of Wednesday night’s crash.

Tonight his biker pals retraced the route of his final ride from The Fossils Cafe, in St Osyth Road, to Marine Parade East.

Fellow biker Colin Gentry had known him for four years.

"To be honest he was one of the best blokes I've ever known," he said.

"He was always smiling, always happy and always one of the first to offer help to anyone in need.

"No matter what it was, he would be there to help."

Married dad-of-four Mr Sheehan had been riding bikes most of his life.

"He would do anything for his family - he was that sort of person," said Mr Gentry.

"He will be remembered for always having a smile on his face and always being out on bikes, because that's what he loved.

"We are going to follow his final route to where it happened so everyone can pay their respects and say their goodbyes."