Family’s heartbreak after ‘loving’ biker killed in crash on way to work

Ex-racer Ben Wylie died at the scene after his motorbike collided with a van

10:12, 20 Aug 2025Updated 05:54, 21 Aug 2025

Grieving relatives of a Stoke-on-Trent business owner say a 'void has been left in their lives' after he was killed in a crash on his way to work. Ben Wylie had raced motorbikes professionally including at the Isle of Man TT.

But tragically the 42-year-old dad lost his life after colliding with a van in Audlem earlier this month. Now his loved ones have praised his 'adventurous spirit' following his sudden death.

Devoted husband Ben married wife Crissy Wylie nearly 15 years ago, forming a 'beautiful partnership'.

He leaves behind four children: Lilliana, 18, Rosie, 14, Scarlett, nine, and three-year-old Jasper.

In a statement, his family said: "Whether he was cheering from the sidelines at their various activities or helping with homework, Ben poured his heart and soul into being a father. His children were his greatest joy, and his marriage to Crissy was a beautiful partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.

"Ben was also a beloved son to Anne, a cherished brother to Timm and Suze, and a fun, caring uncle to his niece and nephew. His family was his anchor, and to his circle of friends, he was the one who always showed up with a helping hand, a quick wit, and a warm smile."

Entrepreneur Ben was well-known across Stoke-on-Trent after establishing Moto Hub, a popular motorcycle shop in Etruria with friend and business partner Sam West.

"Ben had a passion for life that was truly inspiring.

As a serial entrepreneur with a sharp mind and boundless energy, he brought countless ideas to life and motivated those around him," his family proudly explained.

"He founded Amore Moto, which evolved into Moto Hub, a motorcycle specialist shop he ran with his business partner, Sam West in Stoke-on-Trent. He also previously owned Brenin Bikes in Market Drayton with his partner, Mark Willmore.

"More recently, he co-owned the Whitchurch soft play centre, Funzone, with Crissy and was a steadfast supporter of her successful performance arts school, Maggie Mays."

Accomplished TT racer Ben was also revered for his skills outside of work - and on the track. He competed in the British Supersport Championship in 2006 and debuted at the Isle of Man TT in 2009, where he claimed the top newcomer award.

The statement added: "Ben's adventurous spirit shone brightly on the racetrack.

As an accomplished TT racer and a respected figure in the professional riding community, he earned admiration not only for his skill but also for his courage, sportsmanship, and deep knowledge of the sport.

"Those who knew Ben will remember his warmth, determination, and the genuine way he made everyone feel valued. His absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but his love, laughter, and the incredible example he set will forever live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him."

Now his grieving family say they are 'now facing unexpected financial uncertainty, along with costs of arranging his funeral and saying our final goodbyes'. Sister Timm Wylie has kick-started an online fundraiser to help cover the costs.

It reads: "My brother Ben was killed in a road traffic collision.

He was a decorated and accomplished motorbike racer for 18 years, and retired in 2018. As a family, we would hold our breath every time he competed, but we had not envisioned him being taken from us on his way to work.

"This page has been set up in the hope that money could be raised to ease the stress over the coming months, and to best maintain the normality and routines of Crissy and the kids, who now face the harrowing reality of losing Ben, their biggest supporter and teammate.

"Any contribution, no matter how small, would mean the world to them, and us, his wider family. He was incredibly loved, and we will all miss him immeasurably."

Ben, from Whitchurch, was confirmed dead at the scene after emergency services were sent to the A525 Whitchurch Road, Audlem, close to the junction with Rookery Lane at 8.17am on August 6.

His black Moto Morini Corsaro motorcycle had collided with a white Vauxhall van.

The van driver, a 40-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He has since been released on bail.

You can support Ben's family by heading to their GoFundMe page, here[1].

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References

1. ^ here (www.gofundme.com)
2. ^ Get daily headlines and breaking news emailed to you - it's FREE (www.stokesentinel.co.uk)