A tragic grandad from Yorkshire died in a motorcycle crash - after a bird hit his helmet and caused him to lose control of his bike.

William Jackson, 73, landed in a ditch after the impact on his helmet caused his bike to careen off the road, police said.

William, affectionately known as Billy, was pronounced dead at the scene despite the best efforts of medics who tried to save his life.

The horror crash happened at around 12.22pm on Tuesday, March 30 in Sugworth Road in Sheffield, South Yorkshire Police said.

In a statement issued by the force, William’s family said: "Billy was a beloved husband, devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

“He lived life to the full and leaves us far too soon. With happy and fond memories he will be truly missed."

Traffic officers probing the tragic death have launched an appeal for dashcam footage from passing motorists.

A spokesman for the force said: “William Jackson was riding his blue Yamaha bike south on Mortimer Road towards the junction with Sugworth Road.

“After overtaking two other vehicles and returning to the correct side of the road, a bird flew from the offside and collided with William's helmet.

“This reportedly caused the motorbike to leave the road and travel in to a field, leaving William in a ditch.

“We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision to get in touch. We’re especially keen to hear from anyone with dash cam footage of the incident or the motorbike prior.”

Witnesses are urged to call 101 quoting incident number 387 of 30 March or email any footage to enquiries@southyorks.pnn.police.uk.