Appeal after two fatal accidents

The biker, who died after colliding with two vehicles in Ferryhill, County Durham, was last night named as 61- year-old John Armstrong, of the town’s Westcott Terrace.

The details of the 81-yearold man who died after his mobility scooter was involved in a collision with a car in Bedale , North Yorkshire, were not being released last night.

Mr Armstrong, who leaves a wife, Joan, children Lee and Allison, and two grandchildren, was fatally injured after his black Honda Firestorm “deviated from its course” and hit a Renault Clio on the opposite side of Linden Road, at about 4.30pm.

His machine then crashed into a parked Citroen Belingo van. Mr Armstrong was airlifted to The James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, but died shortly after arriving.

In a statement, his family said: “We have been left devastated by John’s tragic death.

“He was a keen biker of many years’ experience and was on his way home after a ride out with a friend when the accident occurred.

“He was a wonderful family man and we have been left shocked and numb by his loss.

We now need time in peace so that we can come to terms with what has happened.”

The family said they were keen to thank the Great North Air Ambulance crew who treated Mr Armstrong at the scene. Witnesses are asked to call the collision investigation unit on 0191-375-2159.

The pensioner who died when his mobility scooter was in collision with a silver Ford Ka near the junction of Firby Road and Masham Road in Bedale is understood to have lived in nearby sheltered housing.

Police are also appealing for witnesses to the accident which happened at 6.15pm.

The driver of the Ka, a local man, was unhurt.

The victim was given first aid at the scene and taken to hospital by air ambulance, but died from his injuries.

The road was closed for four hours as police officers and a forensic team carried out investigations.

Witnesses are asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, press option 2 and ask for Chris Dundan.