A BIKER who was killed in a fatal road traffic collision in Sulby has been described as "a well loved family man".

Anthony (Tony) James Cook, 75, from Sulby, was killed on Thursday, June 2 after his sidecar outfit collided with a parked car on Claddaghs Road.

Tony was a retired motor engineer who moved to the Isle of Man 22 years. Before this he was a regular visitor to the Island as a TT spectator.

He started riding motorbikes at the age of 16 and racing, as a sidecar passenger, in his twenties.

In 1960 he received a silver replica for coming fourth in the sidecar TT as passenger to Les Wells and they raced again in 1961 but unfortunately they did not finish.

A statement issued by his family said Tony was a "conscientious, safe rider who dedicated his free time for many years to training new riders to ride with safety in mind."

It continued: "Classic cars were his other love and he was the proud owner of a Rolls Royce Silver Shadow I. In later years he spent his spare time restoring vintage motorbikes and using his skills to help local classic car owners keep their cars on the road."

The sidecar passenger was taken to hospital but released the following day.

Police say they would still like to speak to anybody who witnessed the collision which happened at around 6.15pm. Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Headquarters on 01624 631212.

Also see: Fatal road traffic collision in Sulby