Supporters and players have paid tribute to a Leyton Orient superfan, who tragically died in a road crash.

Frankie Bish, known to many as “Mr Orient”, has been named locally as the man who died after being hit by a scooter in Dagenham, yesterday evening (Thursday, March 30).

Tributes to the 50-year-old have flooded in from former Orient players and fans alike after news of his death was announced today.

Supporters also plan to stage a round of applause for Mr Bish in the 50th minute of The O’s fixture against Wycombe Wanderers at Brisbane Road tomorrow afternoon.

Leyton Orient Fans Trust (LOFT) board member, Mat Roper, said: “It is with great sadness and shock that O's fans have learnt of the passing of fellow supporter Frankie Bish.

“Everyone knows everyone at the O's, some obviously more than others, but you could almost certainly not be a regular LOFC fan without knowing Frankie Bish.

“Politely, and quite rightly, he had the title of "Mr Orient".

“Frank was Orient through and through, having travelled the length and breadth of the country following the club.

“He had many, many friends at Brisbane Road and was truly loved by all - you only have to look at the volume and sincerity of the messages on social media to back up that statement.

“Frank's passing will be a massive loss to the Orient faithful and words cannot express how much he will be missed by me and fellow supporters.

“Our thoughts and condolences go of course to his friends and family at this very sad time.”

Former Orient midfielder Dean Cox paid tribute to Mr Bish on Twitter

Police were called to Grafton Lane, Dagenham, at around 8.30pm yesterday to reports of a crash between a scooter and a pedestrian.

Officers said a 50-year-old man, understood to be Mr Bish, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 17-year-old boy, thought to be a pillion passenger on the scooter, was also found at the scene and taken to an east London hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

The rider of the scooter did not remain at the scene. However, shortly after police found a 21-year-old man thought to be the rider suffering from serious injuries.

He also remains in hospital fighting for his life.

The scooter left at the scene was later identified as one stolen in Kensington and Chelsea Borough last November.

  • Any witnesses or anyone with information is urged to contact the Met witness line on: 0208 597 4874
  • Did you know Frankie? If you would like to pay tribute to him, please email: thomas.barnes@london.newsquest.co.uk