A MOTORCYCLIST who died in a crash with a van in West Yorkshire has been officially named.

Michael Holtom died when the motorcycle he was riding was in collision with a white Mercedes Sprinter Van at 7.30am at the A672, junction with the entry slip road, Junction 22 M62 at Ripponden on July 16.

His family paid tribute to Michael, saying: “Our beloved Michael (Mikey) sadly passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2022 aged 36.

“No words can express the heartache we as a family are going through.

“He was a wonderful amazing loving husband and father to three beautiful children. Mikey was a loveable, fun, caring man and lived life to the fullest. He would do anything for anybody.

“We will all miss your cheeky smile and big warm hugs.

“Life will never be the same without you. You’re always in our hearts and minds and we love you forever and ever. “ A 31-year-old male, arrested on the day of the collision has been released under investigation with regards to the collision.

Detectives from the Major Collision Enquiry Team (MCET) continue to appeal for witnesses to the collision, or anyone who had CCTV or Dashcam footage, to come forwards.

Information can be given to MCET on 101 or online at westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat and quoting Log 413 16/07/2022.