THE family of 18-year-old Jack Byrne, who died following a collision between an off-road motorbike and a car in Oxton on Wednesday, have paid tribute to him.

​Jack’s mum Trisha, his step-dad Ian and his sister Katie said: ​"Jack was a lovely, caring, polite, intelligent and confident son and brother who would do anything for his family.

"He was loved and well respected by everyone who knew him and was popular within his large circle of friends.  He was a definite lad's lad.

​"Jack had recently celebrated his eighteenth birthday, one of many mile stones in his life. Jack could always enjoy himself at any occasion and was always good fun to have around.

"He was passionate about sports, mainly rugby, and was a loyal player and supporter of his local team ‘Old Anselmians’.

"Jack was a hard worker and would always give one hundred per cent effort in everything he did.

"He had studied hard at college to become a mechanic and had recently started a new job at Cybox on Bromborough Industrial Estate."

The family are overwhelmed by all the messages of condolence, cards, candles and floral tributes left at the scene of the incident and would like people to know they are truly grateful.

This offers them some comfort as they struggle to come to terms with their loss.

Inspector Chris Dillon, of Matrix Serious Organised Crime Roads Policing Unit, said: "This is a tragic incident which has resulted in the death of an 18-year-old man and has left a teenager in a critical condition in hospital.

"Our thoughts are with the families of all those concerned at this very difficult time.

"We are still working hard to establish the circumstances surrounding the collision so that we can understand exactly what happened to Jack and his friend.

"We'd always urge anyone using a motorbike, whatever the type, to use the correct safety equipment.

"We'd also appeal to people to make sure they keep their vehicles well maintained whether they are being used on or off road."