TRIBUTES have been paid to a Grange-over-Sands man who died following a crash on the A591.

The incident occurred on Monday at 5.20pm near Ambleside Youth Hostel. The road was closed for several hours as a result.

Andrew Fallows, 48, was riding a Suzuki motorcycle, which was in collision with a Volkswagen Golf. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family said: "Andy was the beloved father of Josh and Abbie, not only a father but a best friend.

"The most wonderful and loving son and the best brother in the world to his twin sister.

"The funniest, silliest, kindest gentle giant.

"He will be forever missed and always loved.”

Andrew Brereton, the owner of A1 Taxis in Barrow, had known Mr Fallows from the age of around 10.

"I haven't seen him for many years but when I did see him he was always a happy and friendly guy," he said. "I know that he wouldn't have changed much because that was the guy he was. He was always a nice, big, friendly guy."

"I'm still getting over the shock of it happening really," he added. "He will be sadly missed."

A spokesperson for Pennington Bike Night, a bikers group which meets in the Furness village, said on Facebook: "It was with sad news this evening I heard of Andy Fallows' death from a motorcycle accident.

"Andy was a friend of mine and many of you who come along to our bike nights.

"Also a regular he was known as a gentle giant and a really nice guy, from us all RIP."

Mr Fallows worked at Kimberly-Clark in Barrow for four-and-a-half years before leaving to pursue a new career. A spokesperson said: "Kimberly-Clark extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Andy Fallows and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time."

A number of people also paid their respects on Facebook. Darren John McSweeney wrote: "Raised a glass to the big lad last night when I got told.

"One of the nicest guys I've ever worked with. An absolute gentle giant of a guy.

"A very clever and talented engineer who loved a challenge. Rest in peace big lad."

Craig Price wrote: "Words can't describe how empty this has left me, a great friend, a great colleague, a great man, RIP Andy.

"My condolences to your family at this saddest of sad times."

Stuart Harrison added: "Just seen this terrible news, absolutely gutted.

"Andy was a fantastic lad. My thoughts are with his family at this tragic time."

Anyone who witnessed the incident on July 29 is asked to call 101, then ask for PC 2392 Oliver Evans, quoting incident number 172 of July 29.