A motorcyclist was killed when he crashed with a van in Penge, despite the desperate attempts of bystanders and paramedics to save his life.

The 56-year-old biker, named locally as John, was hit by a VW Transporter in Croydon Road, near the junction with Thornsett Road, at about 1.10pm on Saturday, November 21.

London Ambulance Service paramedics battled to save the critically injured man as he lay on the pavement at the entrance of Thornsett Road.

He was rushed to a south London hospital where he died from his injuries a short time later.

Lynn Granger, who lives at the junction, was at home at the time of the crash.

The 47-year-old told News Shopper: "We heard it and then we came out and it had already happened."

She said she saw medics, including air ambulance staff, treating the victim, who was in a life-threatening condition.

TOP STORIES

News Shopper:

London's air ambulance landed in nearby Betts Park.

Ms Granger added: "They were there for quite some time doing what they could.

"There were other people helping but who they were I don’t know."

The van driver, who stopped at the scene, was not arrested in connection with the crash.

A police spokesman said the victim’s next of kin have been informed and enquiries into the crash continue.

Having lived in Thornsett Road for just over 10 years, Ms Granger said the visibility for drivers pulling out into Croydon Road can be limited.

The busy 30mph single carriageway is a popular route for buses travelling through South Norwood in one direction and Penge in the other.

She said: "I think there's probably been about four or five accidents since I've been here.

"This corner seems particularly bad.

"It's something that you notice when you live here."

News Shopper:

A bunch of flowers has been tied to a lamppost paying tribute to the biker.

The message reads: "For John. Always in our hearts and minds."

On social media, Catherine Walker wrote: "Rest in Peace John. You will be missed."

Anyone who witnessed the collision, or the events leading up to the collision, is asked to contact police on 020 8285 1574.

Do you want to pay tribute to John? Call the newsdesk on 07787 273803 or email jessica.bell@london.newsquest.co.uk.