TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a married father-of-three from Elton who was killed when his motorbike collided with a combine harvester on the A56 in Chester.

John Pollitt, 45, of Parkland Drive, Elton – who was married to wife Helen and had three children, Ben, Alexandra and Grace – worked as an instrument electrical technician for former Kemira fertiliser company Growhow in Ince and was a part-time driver for Elton-based Village Taxis.

A family friend, speaking on behalf of the Pollitts, said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by John’s death. He was a good mate and loved by everybody.

“He’s irreplaceable and we will miss him dearly.

“As Godparents to his youngest daughter, we have lost a friend, colleague and family member.

“John’s family would like to thank everyone for their messages of love and support during this sad and difficult time.”

A popular and well-known figure in the Elton community, John – who attended the old Stanney High School – was passionate about motorcycling and recently became a marshal at Oulton Park racetrack.

He was an avid Manchester United fan and a keen golfer.

Staff at The Rigger Pub, Elton, said: “He was a lovely man, a family man.

“He wasn’t a big drinker, he’d come in every now and then when we had live bands or events.

“Everyone here is in shock.”

Cheshire Police were called to the accident, at the junction of the A56 and near to the M53 roundabout, at about 10.08am on Monday, August 2, and closed the road to allow crash investigators to conduct their enquiries.

It is thought Mr Pollitt was riding his distinctive blue Suzuki bike – carrying the livery of the Rizla Moto GP racing team – toward Helsby while the giant Claas Lexion combine harvester was travelling in the opposite direction towards Chester when the collision happened. North West Ambulance Service took Mr Pollitt to the Countess of Chester hospital but he died from his injuries.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Sgt Rachel Gallagher at Chester Police roads unit on 0845 458 0000.