A biker who was injured in a crash in London Road has died in hospital.
Bernard Payne, 69, was taken to hospital after falling from the Honda motorbike in Victoria Road near to the Capitol Centre on Monday afternoon in Walton-le-Dale.
Lancashire Police said he was surrounded by his family in hospital during Tuesday afternoon when he passed away.
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A police spokesperson said: “It has now been established that Bernard had suffered a medical episode leading to his death and it was not as a result of the collision.”
Payne, who was from Upholland, has been described as a ‘hero and rock’ in a statement released by his family.
They said: “In loving memory of Bernard Payne, aged 69. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, a dad of four, grandad of eight, father-in-law, brother, uncle and friend.
“With heavy hearts we say goodbye to Bernard, a deeply loved and greatly missed man who leaves behind a space no one else can ever fill.
“A devoted husband to his late wife Susan, Bernard’s life was shaped by love, loyalty and family.
“A proud father and cherished grandfather, Bernard was the steady presence everyone could count on – always ready with a smile, a story, or a helping hand.
“His passion for motorbikes was only matched by the love he had for his family.
“To his children, he was a rock. To his grandchildren, a hero. To his friends, a constant. And to all who knew him, a kind and generous soul.
“The world feels a lot quieter without him, but his spirit roars on in the laughter, memories and love he leaves behind. Forever in our hearts.”
Members of the public have been thanked by police who went to Mr Payne’s aid following his fall and gave him first aid.
Victoria Road and London Road were closed for around six hours on Monday afternoon as emergency services worked at the scene.
Police said their investigation into the crash has now concluded.
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