Friends and colleagues have paid tribute to a well-known businessman who died following an accident on his motorbike at the weekend.

Anthony Crossthwaite, 46, who owned Preston Travel Centre, formerly Ashton Travel, in Blackpool Road, Ashton, died when his Kawasaki hit a Toyota Corolla head on in Rosemary Lane, Bartle, as the car was overtaking a stationary vehicle. He suffered multiple injuries and was taken to Royal Preston Hospital but died shortly after.

His partner Amanda, who he lived with him in Whittingham Lane, Broughton, and parents, Doreen and Derek, were too devastated to talk about what had happened, and the shop was closed as a mark of respect until Wednesday.

Sandra Mercer, sales director, worked for Mr Crossthwaite for 15 years, and was made business partner five years ago. She said: "We were absolutely devastated when it happened and we have been supporting each other.

"I have been in regular contact with his family and they are very upset. We decided to open again on Wednesday because it is the way he would've wanted it."

The businessman, a former pupil of Ashton High School, also ran Photoshop Express until two years ago, and owned properties around the Lane Ends area.

He was keen on outdoor pursuits including fishing, shooting, golf and skiing and was a member of Red Scar Angling Club.

Mrs Mercer said he will be most remembered for his fun-loving nature.

She said: "He was happy and friendly. He was everyone's friends and touched so many people's lives.

"He was very popular and well respected. We were absolutely devastated when we found out. I just can't put it into words how we felt."

She said staff at the shop were planning to make some sort of permanent memorial to their boss but had not yet decided what it would be.

Papers relating to Mr Crossthwaite's death have been passed to coroner's office.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to the accident on Saturday afternoon. The 81-year-old driver of the car, from Fulwood, was unhurt.

Anyone who witnessed the accident should contact Preston police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.