Tributes to motorcyclist killed in Welwyn Garden City crash

Thomas Auger was pronounced dead at the scene after coming off his Yamaha in Long Ley on Wednesday, March 27.

The 23-year-old was born in Welwyn in 2001, and quickly fell in love with karate, achieving his black belt at the age of 14.

He was heavily involved in helping run classes for younger pupils, teaching karate classes at Hertfordshire charity SPACE, where he inspired confidence in others.

Tom worked as a telecoms engineer and also ran his own business, Viper Surveillance, installing security cameras and alarm systems.

At the time of his death, he was working towards fulfilling his ambition to become a stuntman and securing a stunt register licence. He was also set to take his Trampoline Stunt Test on April 15.

Thomas Auger. (Image: Herts police)

He leaves his mum, dad, three older siblings, Rachel, Jake and Emily, and one younger brother. He also leaves two nephews.

Paying tribute to him, his mother said: "Tom was always a very happy, full of life, child. He had learnt to ride his bike by age four and was fearless. 

"If he set his mind to something, he would practice over and over until he achieved what he’d set out to achieve.

"This attitude helped him advance quickly in his karate as he would practice his stances and katas constantly to perfect the techniques.

"He loved being physically active and when he wasn’t training for, or teaching, karate, he enjoyed trampolining, gymnastics and indoor climbing. He also had a passion for motorbikes and fast cars.

"Tom’s main desire was to help others and he had a beautiful way of being able to connect with everyone he met and inspired many children whilst teaching karate to them. Tom also inspired many an adult in his later pursuit of his activities and within his working career.

"If Tom’s passing means that each individual he touched can use just a spark of the love he gave, then the world can be a more peaceful and loving place."