A motorcyclist who died following a crash in Wigan has been named as Stephen Sparks, 44. He was riding along Wigan Lane in Swinley on the afternoon of October 27 when he was involved in a collision with a van at around 4.25pm. Mr Sparks died from his injuries.
Family tribute
His sister, Ruth Entwistle, paid tribute to her brother. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, she said: "He leaves behind his three children, who he lived for, a niece and nephew whom he was ever so proud of and myself and his brother-in-law.
"My little brother was big and daft and looked after everyone around him. We took care of each other no matter what. We don't know what we will do without him. We are forever changed."
Bus driver and family man
Mr Sparks, a self-dubbed 'Wiganer', worked as a bus driver, a job that he thoroughly enjoyed, said his sister. "If he wasn't working, he was with family and friends. As a family we were really close and he had so many friends that wherever we went he would see someone he knew," she added.
Police investigation
Greater Manchester Police said the two vehicles were reportedly travelling in opposite directions on Wigan Lane when the van driver indicated to turn right. When making the right turn, it is believed the motorbike hit the van, the force said.
Officers closed Wigan Lane for several hours on Tuesday evening between Clifton Street and Standishgate. People were urged to avoid the area while initial investigations took place.
Enquiries remain ongoing and GMP is now asking any witnesses to get in touch. Anyone with information, CCTV, Ring doorbell or dashcam footage is urged to contact police on 101 or using the LiveChat function online, quoting log 2393 of October 27, 2026. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
