TRIBUTE has been paid to a well-known businessman and former motorbike racing star from the district who has died aged 79.

Colin Appleyard founded what has become the UK's largest and most successful Suzuki car dealership.

He began his career as a motorcycle mechanic for Allan Jefferies in Shipley in 1951 and after working his way up to sales director, left in 1970 to start his own dealership in Keighley.

Several major franchises were taken on, including Suzuki.

And it was on the back of that success the Japanese manufacturer asked Mr Appleyard to launch Suzuki Cars in Great Britain.

His dealership now has showrooms in Keighley, Huddersfield, Ashton-under-Lyne and Shipley, employs over 120 people and has a turnover exceeding £35 million.

In 2004, to celebrate Suzuki's 25th anniversary in the UK, Mr Appleyard was invited to Japan to tour the country and visit the Hamamatsu factory.

He was affectionately known by the Japanese directors as Father of the Franchise.

"Despite failing health he remained active in the business until his last few weeks," said his son, Robin.

"On his final trip abroad to the Suzuki conference and awards dinner in Amsterdam last December, he was delighted to be given a standing ovation when he stepped up to receive – for the sixth time – the Dealer of the Year title plus a special award to mark the company's 35 years as a Suzuki dealer and reaching sales of 30,000 new cars."

Mr Appleyard was also highly respected in the world of motorcycle sport.

His involvement stretched back over 70 years.

As a young man he joined Bradford and District Motor Club, later serving as president and being awarded life membership.

His racing career spanned two decades and after retiring in 1969 he concentrated on managing the race career of Robin, who went on to win the British 125cc championship five times.

Over the years Mr Appleyard served as a director of the Auto-Cycle Union governing body and for a time was a member of its road race committee.

He was awarded an MBE in the 2013 Queen's New Year's Honours List for his lifelong service to the sport.

Mr Appleyard died in the York suite at Bradford Royal Infirmary, surrounded by his family.

"We would like to thank the doctors and nurses of the York suite for all the dedication and kindness they showed during dad's final few weeks in hospital," said Robin.

Mr Appleyard leaves his wife of 55 years, Peggy, daughter Judith, Robin, four grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.