Tributes paid to 'loving father' from Thornton who died in motorbike crash in Cockerham

A Suzuki motorbike was travelling along the A588 at Cockerham before it left the road and came to rest in a field at around 4pm on Saturday, May 30.

The rider, who has since been named as Paul Philip Hardcastle, died at the scene.

In a statement paying tribute to him, Mr Hardcastle's family said: "Paul was a loving father of six children and loving grandfather.

"He leaves behind a loving father, sister and brother, six children and seven grandchildren and many other family members.

"To many known as 'SPUD' he loved to be out on his bike spending time with his friends who will all deeply miss him.

"Paul worked at Blackpool Transport for many years and leaves many friends and colleagues.

"He lived for his children and his love of bikes. One of his mottos was 'sh*t happens'.

"He will be deeply missed."

Police are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to come forward with information.

Sgt Paul Maguire, of Lancashire Constabulary’s Tac Ops team, said: "First and foremost our thoughts are with Paul’s family and friends at this truly awful time. We send them our deepest condolences.

"We continue to appeal for anyone who witnessed the collision and has not yet spoken to police, or anyone who may have dashcam footage, to come forward and contact us."

Anybody with information can contact police by calling 101, quoting log number 1144 of May 30.