Saxmundham – Tribute issued to man who died in collision

Police are naming a man who died in a road traffic collision in Saxmundham last month, as his family pay tribute to him.

Police were called to the A12 just before 2pm on Thursday 4 December, to reports of a two-vehicle collision involving a grey Nissan Almera and a red Mazda at the junction with the B1119 Rendham Road.

Despite the efforts of medical personnel, the driver of the Almera – a man aged in his 80s and the sole occupant in the vehicle - sadly died at the scene.

Subject to confirmation at formal inquest proceedings, the deceased has been identified as Ian Chatten, aged 86 and from Framlingham.

Ian’s family have asked us to issue the following tribute on their behalf:

“Ian Chatten, 86, Father to Sharon, Michael and Donna and Grandad to Lylia, Sophie and Eden. 

“He was raised in Friston in Suffolk and after leaving school started a brief period of employment at Leiston Works before starting a brick laying apprenticeship which suited him much better. He went onto work across the country for West Homes and was proud to have been promoted to Construction Manager before becoming a self-employed general builder based in Suffolk.  He was an excellent tradesman and had a great reputation for the quality of his work.

“Outside of work he had many interests. In his teens and early twenties he loved his motorbikes and spent many happy hours cruising the Suffolk roads on his beloved Triumph Bonneville. He was a lover of many sports and was a keen, competent golfer.  He was an avid spectator of horse racing, football and motorsport.  He also loved music.  He was proud to have played rhythm guitar in the early years with local band “The Wild Oats” during the early 1960’s.  He rekindled his interest in playing guitar in the 90’s and made many friends who played in bands thereafter.  He performed with some local acts whilst in his 70’s.

“He could be funny and warm and loved a good chat.  He will be greatly missed by the many who knew him.”

A man aged in his 30s who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving remains on bail while investigations continue.

Officers are continuing to appeal for any potential witnesses and are asking any motorists driving in the area with a dashcam fitted in their vehicle, to review the footage for any material that may be of assistance.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Joint Norfolk & Suffolk Serious Collision Investigation Unit, quoting reference: 37/68702/25 via:

Website – https://www.suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

Email – SCIU@norfolk.police.uk

Phone – Call 101

Please note in the event of an emergency you should always call 999

If you have been involved in or affected by a road traffic collision, advice and support information can be found at: www.suffolk.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/road-traffic-incident-support-organisations/