TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'true gentleman' from Winsford who died in a motorcycle crash on Sunday afternoon.

Thomas Kneale, 40, from Ennerdale Close, died when his red Honda motorbike collided with a silver Ford Focus on the A534 Salters Lane at Bickerton, near Malpas, shortly after 4pm.

Mr Kneale was taken by ambulance to the Countess of Chester Hospital but he died from his injuries two hours later.

Family friend Steve Ford said: "Tommy lived life to the very full and he will be very sadly missed by everyone.

"I've never met anyone who was as well liked as Tommy because he would do absolutely anything for you and he really was a true gentleman.

"He worked at Henkel where he was very highly respected and an extremely hard worker.

"I have known Tommy for 16 years and will miss him very much."

Mr Kneale leaves mum and dad, Meryl and Tommy, brother Jamie, sisters Karen and Sarah, niece Carys and nephews John and Thomas.

Steve said: "He loved his family very much and we will all miss him.

"He loved to travel and ride his motorbike and he is a very well known person in the town.

"He was always one of the favourite characters at his local, the Knights Grange, and enjoyed going there to meet his many friends.

"I would like to thank everyone who has sent flowers and cards."

Police are investigating the collision and appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information should contact Sgt Steve Griffiths at Chester traffic serious investigation unit on 01244 614395.