FRIENDS and neighbours say they are devastated by the tragic death of the 20-year-old motorcyclist who died in Newport on Thursday.

Liam James Gasson, of Hill Barn View, Portskewett, died after the motorcycle he was riding was involved in a collision on the A48 at Langstone at around 4pm.

Friends say the former Caldicot Comprehensive School and Durand Primary School pupil liked music and supported the Dragons.

A neighbour, who did not want to be named, said Mr Gasson was quiet and kept out of trouble.

She said: "I’m devastated, I can’t believe he’s gone."

She said he was the oldest of four children and had a younger brother and two younger sisters.

The neighbour added: "He hadn’t long had his bike, not even six months. But he always put his gear on.

"He was a lovely boy."

Another neighbour, Julie May, said he was a very polite boy who always said hello.

Mr Gasson’s friend Steph Jordan said: "He was a great guy and missed by everyone who knew him."

Friends left tributes to Mr Gasson on the social networking site Facebook.

Ryan Williams wrote: "I love you man. You’ll always be my brother. I wouldn’t be the man I am if I never knew you. I wish I could go back and let you know how much you meant to me."

Tributes of "R.I.P" and "I can’t believe you’re gone" were also left by friends on the site.

Emergency services are believed to have worked at the roadside for half an hour to resusitate Mr Gasson on Thursday before he was taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport, in cardiac arrest.

An eyewitness said Mr Gasson’s bike was caught in a metal fence near the Hilton Hotel.

No other vehicle was involved in the collision and traffic was diverted from Langstone on to the M4 motorway.

Gwent Police are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 01633 838111 or to call the Collision Investigation Unit on 01633 643091.