A SKIPTON man, who was a leading figure in Bradford Council's highways department, died in a road accident this week.

Motorcyclist Philip Sawley, 53, was airlifted to Lancaster Royal Infirmary after the crash on the A65 near Newby at 2pm on Monday. He died that evening.

Also involved in the accident was a black BMW whose female driver escaped uninjured.

Mr Sawley lived on Rockwood Drive with his wife, Marjorie, who works at St Stephen's RC Primary School.

He joined Bradford Council in April 1986 from the former West Yorkshire County Council.

Tributes to him were paid by the council's head of traffic and highways north, Keith Smith.

He said: "Phil will be sadly missed by everyone.

"I have known him for nearly 20 years but have become close friends with him during the last three years since he became principal engineer for Shipley.

"Not only was Phil highly respected as a traffic engineering specialist within his department, but since taking over the Shipley team he had become successful in promoting traffic calming schemes and other accident reduction measures.

"He built up a strong working relationship with the Shipley Area Committee and local councillors.

"He was a motorist, but preferred his motorbike. It's ironic, therefore, that while he was riding his motorbike in the Dales, that he so tragically lost his life."

He added the loss of Mr Sawley's expertise and outgoing personality would leave a "massive void" in the department.

Mr Sawley had worked with the Highways Agency on the Bingley Relief Road.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said a full investigation into the collision was being carried out. The police will then present their findings to the coroner.

Officers have appealed for witnesses to the incident and anyone who can help should contact 01423 539334.