Tributes have been paid to an “inspirational” primary school teacher who died after his bicycle was in collision with a lorry.

Philip Edmond Lecutier died at Leeds General Infirmary from the injuries he suffered in an incident at the Carlton Crossroads, Bramhope, on Tuesday.

Mr Lecutier, 55, was on his cycle when it collided with a Mercedes-Benz skip loader wagon at around 4.45pm at the junction of the A658 Harrogate Road and Otley Old Road, just north of Leeds Bradford Airport. It is believed he was cycling home from work.

Yesterday, Andy Pickles, head teacher at Cookridge Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School, said the school was “devastated” by the death of Mr Lecutier, of Fieldhead Road, Guiseley, who had worked at the school for nearly 25 years.

“The whole school community is devastated at this tragic loss and our thoughts and prayers are with Phil’s family and friends,” he said.

“Phil joined the school in 1986 and has taught several generations of children, many of whom now have their own children at our school. He always took pride in his teaching and inspired many children to enjoy his science lessons.

“Phil was an inspirational, respected and admired member of staff. He loved travelling and would often bring in pictures from his trips abroad to share with everyone.”

West Yorkshire Police are still appealing for witnesses to the incident. They should contact the major collision enquiry team on 01924 293047.

The crossroads were once a notorious accident blackspot, but accident figures dropped dramatically after the installation of traffic lights in 2003.

Despite a better safety record since then, the crossroads often suffer heavy congestion during rush hour.

Earlier this year, local campaigners highlighted the crossroads as one of the worst for heavy traffic in the area.

Aireborough Civic Society and Apperley Lane Residents Association are lobbying for improvements to the A65 from Horsforth to Menston and the A658 from Bradford to Pool-in-Wharfedale which they say are suffering from increased congestion.

They are arguing that little has been done to alleviate problems caused by housing developments and increased traffic to Leeds Bradford Airport.