A CYCLIST who died following an accident last weekend has been named.

John Johnson, 50, from Ingleby Barwick, was cycling along the A174 near the Middlesbrough turn off when he was struck from behind by a red Ford Focus.

The incident happened at around 12pm on Saturday, September 12. Mr Johnson died at the scene.

A 31-year-old man, the driver of the Ford Focus, was arrested and then bailed.

Plans for Mr Johnson's funeral are now being made and his family have asked that people make a donation to the RSPCA rather than sending flowers.

His family have described him as a loving and caring family man who had been a keen cyclist since his teens.

Angela, his wife of 28 years, said: "He was my soul mate and rock. "His passion was bikes and he loved nothing more than going out for a bike ride, which he has done many times since his teens.

"Bruno our dog who we adopted from the RSPCA is wandering around looking lost, John adored him so much.

"Bruno lies down on the carpet next to John's slippers."

David, 15, Mr Johnson's youngest son said: "Dad was a loving father who was always by my side and still is now.

"I will miss him so much and I wish that I could see him one last time to say goodbye. I know he will be cycling with the angels."