TRIBUTES have been paid to a motorcyclist from Wiltshire who died in a motorway crash.

Police responded to reports of a collision involving a red motorcycle and a white Peugeot 208 on the northbound carriageway of the M6, near Keele Services, between junctions 15 and 16 at 12.20pm on Monday, September 5.

Despite the best efforts of air ambulance and West Midlands Ambulance Service paramedics, the motorcycle's rider, Michael Thompson, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 65-year-old's family gave an emotional tribute to their loved one.

In a statement, they said: "Michael was sadly taken from us following an incident on his bike while traveling with friends to Scotland.

“He leaves behind his wife Gill, son Ben and partner Katie, daughter Nikki and partner Zak, and two grandchildren whom he adored.

“As a family, we are devastated by the sudden loss of Mick.

“We would like to thank the officers who are looking after us so well and the emergency paramedics and helicopter team who fought to save him.

“As a retired Army helicopter pilot himself, Michael knew and appreciated the work they do.”

The uninjured driver of the Peugeot is assisting police officers with their inquiries.

Staffordshire and West Midlands Serious Collision Investigation Team officers are appealing for information about the crash.

A spokesman said: "Anyone who witnessed the incident or those with dashcam or CCTV footage of the area at the time is asked to contact us on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101, quoting incident 260 of September 5.

"Alternatively, email CIU directly at ciu@staffordshire.police.uk"