Tributes paid to man who died in collision while cycling in Church Road in Bentley, near Ipswich

Tributes have been paid to a man who died following a road traffic collision in Suffolk.

Police were called at around 7pm on May 17 to reports of a crash involving a car and two male cyclists – just off the A137 on Church Road in Bentley, near Ipswich.

One of the cyclists was airlifted to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, where he sadly died on May 19. The other cyclist sustained minor injuries.

The man who died has been identified as Benjamin (Ben) Jacobs, 47, of Rushmere St Andrew.

Ben’s family has asked Suffolk Constabulary to issue a tribute on their behalf.

Ben’s wife Faye said: "We were childhood sweethearts. I met Ben when I was 15 and from that day forward were inseparable.

“Ben was a brilliant husband who always made me laugh and feel safe. I will forever be lost without him.

“Ben loved being a dad, was always supportive, and took his responsibilities very seriously. He made all my worries go away and he will forever be missed."

Ben’s daughter Holly shared a tribute on behalf of herself and her sister Olivia. She said: "Olivia will miss all the great moments they spent together, whether it was watching the football or going on long walks with the family.

“Our lives feel very quiet and miserable without him present, and we will all miss his laugh and energy most of all.

“We would all like to give our much appreciated thanks to everyone who donated to the fund Steve Harding set up at a time when money is scarce. Every penny will be spent with Dad in mind to give him the send-off he rightfully deserves."

Ben’s son Tom said: "My father was such a diligent and warm-hearted person to everyone.

"As his son, I always admired his ability to remain open-minded and sympathetic even during challenging times that tested his patience. He always had a fantastic sense of humour yet knew when to behave earnestly when myself and my family depended on him.

“Similarly, as an athlete, he shared copious adventures with his friends but always left plenty of time to spend with his family. Thanks for being a caring and influential father and phenomenal friend."

Officers are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to the collision and are also asking anyone driving in the area at the time with a dashcam in their vehicle to review the footage for any relevant material.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Roads and Armed Policing Team, quoting reference 351, by calling 101, visiting this website or emailing SCIU@suffolk.pnn.police.uk.