Tributes to cyclist who died in crash
TRIBUTES have been paid to a cyclist and father-of-two following a tragic fatal crash.
Michael Parkington, 56, was riding his pedal bike in Bacup when he was in a collision with a Chevrolet Kalos shortly before 7pm on Wednesday, August 24.
Police said Mr Parkington, from Helmshore, struck the front of the car and was thrown into the road, suffering serious injuries.
He was taken to Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester where he sadly died in the early hours of the following morning.
In a statement his family said: “Michael was a loving father to his two children, Luke and Matthew. He was also a loving husband to his wife Anne.
“He loved his family very much – no matter how far away they went he thought about them.
“He was a very kind and loyal man who had a passion for cycling, walking the family dogs and of course sitting down with a whisky at night and watching sci-fis, especially his favourite, Star Trek. No matter the problem he would do his best to sort it and would do anything for his family.
“His jokes will be missed – even though they were not always funny, he knew when they would cheer you up.”
Michael had worked for air filter company Camfil in Haslingden for 22 years, beginning as an employee in its stores department and progressing on to the engineering team visiting customer sites to fit products.
He then brought his first hand experience and knowledge to the technical sales department giving support to customers.
Camfil’s finance and human resources director, Caroline Mansfield, said: “Michael was a valued employee and colleague, always professional, cheerful and helpful.
“He was more than a co-worker to many, he was a true friend with a big heart. When we heard the news the whole company was deeply shocked and saddened. He will leave a tremendous gap in the Camfil family for his colleagues, customers and suppliers.”
Police said the Chevrolet Kalos had turned right from Newchurch Road into New Line shortly before the collision. No arrests have been made, and police are appealing for information.
Sergeant Nigel Ralphson, of the Road Policing Unit, said: “This was a serious incident which sadly has cost a man his life. I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the collision to get in touch.”
Contact police on 101 quoting log number 1366 of August 24.
‘He was a very kind and loyal man’