A MOTORCYCLIST has died after he was involved in a road traffic accident.

Police believe Peter Wilson-Mayor, who was described as an experienced rider, came off his BMW bike when a deer ran out in front of him.

The 60-year-old from Darwen suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Tributes have been paid to the ‘bubbly’ and ‘out-going’ grandfather, who was described as a very knowledgeable motorcyclist.

Pete Rush, who knew Mr Wilson-Mayor from the South Lancashire Advanced Motorcycling Club, said: “It is an absolute tragedy.

“I used to call Pete ‘Mr Sat Nav’ because he knew his way around Lancashire so well.

“I could get from A to B using roads you would never have considered going on.”

The incident happened as Mr Wilson-Mayor was travelling on the B6265 at Studley Roger near Ripon at around 11am on Saturday.

Mr Rush said his friend would often go out riding early in the mornings so that he could get back to his home in Bosley Close to spend time with his children, grandchildren and wife Glynis.

He said: “Pete was a really nice guy.

“He was someone I would have a chat with and a pint with. He was very likeable. Pete was really passionate about his motorbike and his family.

“He would go away with friends every year riding about in Europe as well as in this country.

“A few weeks ago, he was in Germany and he met up with some friends of mine for the weekend.

“He was a very smooth rider and very controlled, but if something runs out in front of you, there is not much you can do.

“It could happen to anyone.”

An investigation has been launched by North Yorkshire Police to determine the exact cause of the incident.