Tributes have been paid to a "one of a kind" motorcyclist from Bradford who died following a crash.

It happened at 8.10pm on Sunday (April 23) when 76-year-old John Stanley was travelling along the M6 southbound, between junctions 42 and 41.

The crash involved Mr Stanley's blue motorcycle and a van.

He sadly died in hospital on Monday, Cumbria Police said. 

Mr Stanley's family said his death has "left a void in our lives that cannot be filled".

He was described as a "friend to all" who loved photography and adventures on his motorbike, a Honda C90 Cub. 

In a statement, his family said: “The sudden and unexpected loss of John has left a void in our lives that cannot be filled. John was one-of-a-kind.

"He was a husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend to all. A very proud Yorkshireman, but an even bigger family man who always put family first.

“John was an adventurer and couldn’t wait to put his boots and helmet on before setting off on a new adventure on his motorbike, a Honda C90 Cub, taking his camera to capture moments along the way to share with family and friends upon his return.

“He was so generous, almost to a fault, helping anyone who needed it.

“As a family, we are happy to say that John lived life to the fullest and had only recently said how he had ticked off everything he wanted to on his bucket list.

"We ask that if you saw the motorcycle pictured on the date of the collision or have dashcam footage, please contact Cumbria Police with any information you may have.”

Officers at Cumbria Police are investigating the circumstances around the incident and would like to hear from witnesses or those with dashcam footage.

People can report information online at www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it, or email at sciu@cumbria.police.uk, quoting incident number 185 of April 23, 2023.

People can also phone 101.

Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Community answers

Pay your tributes after tragic death of man, 76, from Bradford

"76-year-old John Stanley has died following a crash on the motorway in Cumbria. This is a place where people can share their memories, tributes and photos."

We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.

From John Nuttall

Share your tributes, messages of condolence and memories hereRIP John, having met several times in the past when out motorcycling on his awesome gadget-laden "once seen, never forgotten" (as was John) Honda 90, a real character who will be sadly missed for his contribution to the motorcycle community. Sincere condolences to family, friends and all who knew John, a true Knight -of-the-Road - John N (Honda PCX 125 [among others]).

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Bradford Telegraph and Argus: John NuttallJohn Nuttall

From Mike Taylor

Share your tributes, messages of condolence and memories hereI'm one of the organisers of the event John was on his way home from, where he had won an award for his bike along with helping raise £4000 for the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance. John was a great guy with a cracking eye for photos and I very much enjoyed our exchanging of critiques towards our own individual styles. John really did inspire folk to get out on their bike and see the world. He'll be missed.

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Bradford Telegraph and Argus: John in my kitchen doing the dishes.John in my kitchen doing the dishes.

From Paul Morgan

Share your tributes, messages of condolence and memories hereJohn was a real down-to-earth biker, while I was in Hospital in 2020 he came to visit me a number of times, he always ask if I needed anything and even bought me a pizza on one Sunday afternoon .. A very generous Yorkman , he wouldn't take a penny for the pizza or other items he gave me, I will miss him as a friend and a biker , may he rest in peace ..

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Bradford Telegraph and Argus: John Stanley, bringing me a Latte  on a Sunday afternoon while I'm stuck in St James hospital in 2020 during Covid lock-downJohn Stanley, bringing me a Latte on a Sunday afternoon while I'm stuck in St James hospital in 2020 during Covid lock-down

From Claire Colston

Share your tributes, messages of condolence and memories hereI am absolutely devastated by this news. John and I messaged most weeks where we spoke about photography and shared cheesey jokes. I have some wonderful pictures he took of me when we saw each other at a bike festival. He was the resident photographer at Cub Fest where I shall now step up as their professional photographer. I could never fill his boots though. Such a kind, jolly, crazy but caring man. He was one in a million. I feel for all his family and friends. He was so obviously absolutely devoted to his wife, kids and grandchildren. Thanks John from Bradford, the community shall never forget you mate.....

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Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Miss you mate and thanks for all the photos you took of me.....Miss you mate and thanks for all the photos you took of me.....