A MOTORCYCLIST who died when his bike was in collision with a tractor at the weekend has been described as a devoted family man.

Gavin Hardy was riding along Nettlebed Lane, near Toft Hill, County Durham, in convoy with two fellow bikers when his Honda Fireblade was involved in the incident shortly before 5pm on Sunday, July 13.

The married father-of-one daughter, of Escomb Road, Bishop Auckland, was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision and formal identification took place on Wednesday evening.

In a statement his family paid tribute to the 32-year-old, stating: “Gavin was a much loved husband, father and son who was devoted to his family.

“He was a popular person who would do anything for anyone. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Floral tributes have been placed at the scene of the accident.

Collision investigators at Durham Police have renewed their appeal for information and to ask witnesses to come forward.

They are particularly keen to speak to the driver of a red coloured E-type Jaguar who was travelling on Nettlebed Lane in the same direction as the motorcycles shortly before the accident took place.

It is not thought the male driver, believed to be in his 50s or 60s saw the collision, however investigators are hoping his account may help with their enquiries.

PC Ian Cousins, from the joint Durham and Cleveland collision unit, said: “There is no suggestion the driver was involved in any way with the collision, we are anxious to trace him simply as a witness.”

The road was closed for about four hours while investigation work was carried out.

The driver of the tractor, a local man, aged 57, escaped from the incident unhurt.

Witnesses should call Durham Police on 101.