MOVING tributes have continued to be left by the "broken-hearted" family and friends of a cyclist who died near a busy Lewisham roundabout last week.

Father-of-two Paul Hutcheson, aged 41, died in hospital after his bike collided with a car in Loampit Vale on June 24.

The car involved in the accident, a red Audi, initially failed to stop at the scene of the accident but was eventually found by police a short distance away.

His wife Mandie, who had lived with Mr Hutcheson in the Horn Park estate on the border of Lee and Eltham, was too upset to speak last week.

But in a heartbreaking tribute left at the scene she wrote that she was "lost" without her husband.

The card said: "'Morning Treacle’ so wish I could hear you say that to me again. It feels like my lungs have no air and my heart has no beat. I’m lost without you, gonna miss you so much.

"You always said I was your rock, I’m a pebble without you. Love you always. Night night pudding, Love Treacle."

Another written tribute from his parents said: "Our darling son Paul. A light has gone out in our life, it will never be the same again.

"Love you forever and always. From your broken-hearted but ever loving Mum and Dad."

Friends of Mr Hutcheson, known affectionately as Crutch, told News Shopper he was a "fantastic bloke" and "a really happy fellow" who was never down.

Childhood pal George Brown, 44, who grew up with Mr Hutcheson in Deptford, said: "I shared most of my formative teenage years growing up with Paul.

"We lived minutes apart from each other, spending many days and evenings within a small group of local lads that shared many common interests."

He said: "Paul was the most jovial, happy-go-lucky person I've ever known during my early years.

"I thought about him often over the years and planned to visit his parents to re-establish contact. I guess that will never happen again.

"God bless you Paul. And if you see Levi on the other side, say a big hi from Georgie Boy."

Members of the group Lewisham Cyclists have also visited the scene of the crash and written to Lewisham Council to advise on safety improvements for the area.

Following the accident, a 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident. He has since been bailed to return in August pending further enquiries.

Police from the Road Death Investigation Unit continue to appeal for information. If you can help call 020 8285 1574 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.