Family pay tribute to motorcyclist killed in West Lancashire crash

A family have paid an emotional tribute to a motorcyclist who died following a road traffic collision in Lathom.

Jim Barnes, 70, was described as a ‘happy, caring man with an infectious laugh’.

He was riding a motorbike which was in collision with a car on Hall Lane, Lathom, near Ormskirk, on Friday 6th September.

In their tribute to Jim, who lived in Thornton Cleveleys, his family said: “It is with great regret that we need to announce that our Dad, Jim Barnes, sadly passed away on Friday 6th September in a motorbike accident.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better Dad/Grandad who was always there for us and will be greatly missed, probably more than he realised.

“Jim was brought up in St Helens and attended Cowley School. He was well known around the Blackpool area where he attended Poulton College and spent most of his adult life with his beloved wife Lynn who sadly passed away in 2009.

“He was a serving police officer for 30 years, predominantly on traffic and in and around the Fylde coast. He was a Cub Scout leader and a dedicated Freemason. He put considerable efforts into helping people and raising money for charity and was always on hand if needed.

“Jim will be remembered as a happy, caring man with an infectious laugh and great sense of humour who always had a funny story to share.

“His love of trains, motorbikes, cars and time with his family was well known and he loved just driving/riding all his life.

“He is survived by his two children, Chris and Jane and one granddaughter, all of whom he loved dearly.”

An investigation into the collision is ongoing and officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses and CCTV/dashcam footage. Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.