THE family of an ex-serviceman who died in a car crash have paid tribute to him.

Keiran Rafferty, 60, died on Saturday, July 25 at around 9.20pm when his vehicle left the road as he was travelling along the A61 towards the village of Skipton-on-Swale from the Busby Stoop roundabout.

His family today described him as an animal lover who was passionate about cars, motorbikes and Northern Soul music.

Mr Rafferty was born in Fife, Scotland and moved around the country with his parents as the mining community was diminishing.

The family eventually settled in Stoke-on-Trent and Mr Rafferty joined the armed forces after leaving school, taking the opportunity to travel the globe with the 49 Field Regiment Royal Artillery.

He settled in Ripon and his family today paid tribute to him, saying: "Keiran was married for more than 25-years living in the Yorkshire area.

"He leaves behind his partner Debs of over seven years and their lovely doggies Nardie and Ozzy.

"Keiran will be terribly missed by his family and friends.

"Keiran was well known for his love of music and specifically for his passion for Northern Soul.

"Keiran loved cars and motorbikes which gave him a fabulous circle of friends and he hated to see any animal cruelty."

Officers are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the crash on July 25, or who may have dash cam footage from the area around the time of the incident.

If you have any information which could help police establish the full circumstances of this incident then please contact: Nicola.gill@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk quoting reference: 12200127493.