A devastetd family have spoken of their grief after their 'precious' son was killed in a motorcycle accident.

Glowing tributes have been paid to Stuart McPherson, who died when a beige Volkswagen Passat collided with his Kawasaki bike at about 10pm on Friday.

The 21-year-old's parents were told the tragic news of the accident in Northfield Avenue, West Ealing, by police a few hours later.

His father, Malcolm McPherson, said: "He was the most precious thing in my life, it's such a devastating loss.

"He's going to be very deeply missed by everyone. He was exceptionally popular, very modest and a very fine athlete."

Stuart worked with his father as a carpenter while studying the trade at college in Acton. He lived with his father, his mother Maria, 48, and younger brother David, 19, at Greystoke Terrace, Ealing.

Mr McPherson, 51, added: "Stuart was David's mentor and best friend.

"He was extremely hard-working, whatever he put his mind to, he saw through to the end.

"He wanted to be a body builder while studying for A levels, he would go to G's Gym in Popes Lane, Acton, in the morning, work out and then put his uniform on to go to school.

"He was very level-headed. He had a full licence and never crashed a car, never even bumped a car. This was his first collision and unfortunately it was his last."

The former Gunnersbury Catholic School and North Ealing Primary School pupil had been out with friends in Ealing Broadway and was on his way to visit his girlfriend in Chiswick when the accident happened.

Scores of friends have paid tribute to him on the social networking website Facebook, setting up a group in his memory describing him as "everyone's best and most loved friend."

One entry reads: "No one knows what to say or do. We're all in bits mate. I can't explain how devastated I am.

"You were a great friend, a top bloke and someone I will never forget."

Stuart played at Ealing Rugby Club for 13 years, staying friends with former team mates after leaving four years ago.

Damien Bugeja, 49, coached him for 11 years. He said: "He was a talented player, quick and agile. He was a really nice guy who was really well liked."

Dave Wood, Stuart's tutor at Ealing, Hammersmith & West London College, added: "Everyone is shocked.

"Stuart was very well liked by students and staff and consistently produced excel-lent work. He will be very much missed."

The funeral will be held at Breakspear Crematorium, Ruislip, on Thursday at 1pm.

Witnesses to the accident should call Alperton traffic police on 0208 998 5319.

A 28-year-old man has been arrested and bailed until December.

Place your tribute to Stuart here