THE family of a 72-year-old man who died in a road traffic collision has paid tribute to a 'diverse character' who 'made the most of every opportunity'.

Ronnie Monks died while riding a motorcycle on Townhead Lane, Ravenstonedale, near the junction for the A683, on Saturday.

Family members have paid tribute to Mr Monks, who was born in Bolton and living in the Worsley area of Manchester at the time of his death, saying in a statement: “Ronnie was a loving, caring man who sadly leaves behind his wife, children and grandchildren.

“He was a diverse character with a thirst for knowledge.

"He loved to learn and he had many interests, from strange foreign rock music to travelling around France in his camper van with his loving wife Viv.

"He was also an avid supporter of Manchester United Football Club and enjoyed watching them play.

“Ronnie was the founding member of a local motorcycle club and was extremely proud to have been involved with setting this up.

"He was ex-REME (Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers) in the army and this is where he discovered motorbikes which, alongside music, proved to be a lifelong passion.

“He enjoyed every moment he could during his life and he made the most of every opportunity.

"His tragic and sudden loss will be felt across the local area for a long, long time and he will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him.”

Cumbria Police is still appealing for any witnesses to the collision. Anyone with information is asked to email SCIU@cumbria.police.uk or to call 101 and contact PC 353 Thompson of North MSG, quoting log number 155 of July 11.