Tributes paid to cyclist, 83, after '˜hit and run'

John Dykes died yesterday, Tuesday, after being knocked off his bike by a suspected hit and run driver on Belvedere Road in Newton-le-Willows on February 9.

In a statement, his family said: “The Dykes family are devastated to announce the death of John, commonly known as Jack, on Tuesday following a tragic road traffic collision exactly one week previous and barely 100 yards from his former home on Cross Lane.

“John was husband to Barbara, father to Geoff, Chris and Sandra, and proud grandfather of six and great grandfather of six.

“Born and raised in Earlestown above the family newsagent business, he went on to be a long serving panel beater at A&B Motors - a stint of 25 years broken only by two years of national service in the Kings Own Regiment at Bulford and Osnabruck. In 1972 he set up his own repair business which continued until his retirement in 1999.

“Known throughout the town for his kindness and generosity in helping others this selflessness continued through the donation of his organs, possible because of his excellent health and level of fitness.

“In the last 16 years a latent creative talent was demonstrated in woodwork and metalwork of various forms. He also was a keen cyclist with his pride and joy being the electric bike acquired five years ago. His true passion was bowling which he played at Mesnes Park and for which he was the recipient of several awards.

“Surrounded by all of his family in the final week of his life, his life support was withdrawn and he died peacefully at the Walton Centre, Aintree Hospital, where he received dedicated care.

“Due to the circumstances surrounding his untimely death the family are unable to announce details of the funeral at this time but will do so in the local press as soon as they know.”

A man aged 50, and also from Newton, has been arrested on suspicion of driving without due care and attention.

He has been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

The victim, who has not been named, suffered serious head injuries at the scene and was taken to hospital.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information can call Merseyside Police’s Roads Policing Unit on 0151 777 5747 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.