Crime, Motoring & Transport, Poole | Posted on October 15th, 2026 | return to news

Family tribute following teenager’s death in Poole collision

Following the death of motorcyclist Zebedee Watson, the driver of a lorry involved has received a suspended sentence.

Described by his family as ‘full of life with his whole future ahead of him’, the family of Zebedee Watson paid tribute to the 17-year-old, who died following a collision involving his motorcycle and a lorry at the Holes Bay North Roundabout on Friday 28 November 2025.

Following a detailed investigation by officers, 56-year-old Paul Graham, of Stoborough, appeared in court charged with causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving. He was sentenced at Weymouth Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 14 October 2026 to six months in prison, suspended for 18 months.

Graham was also ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work, disqualified from driving for 18 months, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £154 and court costs of £85.

In a statement after the sentencing hearing, Zebedee’s family said: “Zeb had passed his CBT in March 2025 and had been riding his bike confidently and competently for six months. The courts and CCTV evidence show that Zeb was riding his bike responsibly and legally.

“The lorry driver had been aware of Zeb on his bike as the driver had been following him for a quarter of a mile. The Holes Bay Road North Roundabout was well lit up, and Zeb was very obviously visible and completely innocent.

“Zeb’s funeral took place on what should have been his 18th birthday, with well over 250 people attending, showing their love and support.

“Zeb had passed his driving test on the first attempt on 19 November 2025 and was looking forward to driving his own car, his upcoming 18th birthday, and a promising future.

“Zeb was thriving at college on a plumbing course, when he wasn’t at college he was working as a general labourer for his uncle, he just wanted to work and build a secure future for himself and his family.

“Previous to this, Zeb attended King Arthur’s Secondary School in Wincanton.

“Zeb had many interests, varying from music, playing guitar, fishing, shooting, walking, motorbikes, classic cars, general DIY, RAF Cadets and completing his Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Overall, he was a well-read, knowledgeable and intelligent young man with a great sense of humour, and a kind loving heart and character. Zeb’s family will always be immensely proud of him.

“Zeb leaves behind his devastated mum and dad, a heartbroken younger sister, now aged 16, and a treasured little brother, now aged four, who adored him. He cared for them deeply and was proudly the ‘man of the house’.

“He will always be a loving son, grandson, stepson, stepbrother, nephew, cousin and a wonderful friend to so many. His warmth, kindness, and spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”