A FUNERAL funding appeal for a man killed in a motorbike crash has already raised more than £7,600 and there are plans for a ride out in his memory.

The appeal was launched on Facebook to help with meeting the cost of Marlon Vella's funeral following the fatal crash at around 4pm on Monday in Primsland Way, Droitwich.

As previously reported, police said an officer was travelling in a marked police car to an emergency when a Yamaha scooter, travelling ahead of them in the same lane, crashed into a tree.

The 21-year-old from Worcester was pronounced dead at the scene and the road remained closed for around six hours whilst the emergency services, including the police helicopter, responded to the incident.

The appeal from Si Cooper reads: “I’m raising money for Marlon who was tragically taken on April 27 in a terrible accident.

“He was a beautiful young man who was about to celebrate his 22nd birthday.

“Marlon would help anybody and was a very popular person around Worcester and other areas.”

Mr Cooper described the donations from 4,000 friends as ‘amazing’.

A ride out is also being planned to raise money for his family but no date has formally been announced.

Meanwhile, tributes continue to flood in for the much-loved Worcester businessman with friends, family and co-workers paying their respects.

He owned a barbershop called VellaCutz in Fernhill Heath.

We have previously reported how Mr Vella’s sister, Nataya Vella, posted a heartfelt statement on Facebook. She wrote: “My Marley. I can’t believe you’re gone.

“You were my protector, the person who always made me feel safe, you are my big brother and always will be.

“I wish I got to say I love you one more time. This is not goodbye Marlon, because you will be with me forever.

“I hope you rest in the most beautiful paradise surrounded by everything you want. Until we meet again, I love you.”

Laura Churchill, who went to school with Mr Vella, also paid tribute to him:

“Rain all day, it’s almost like the world knew of the loss of such a loved member in society,” she wrote yesterday.

“Marlon showed us all, no matter where you come from, anything is possible if you work hard and never give up."