THE HEARTBROKEN family of a cyclist who died when his mountain bike was involved in a collision with a van have paid tribute to him.

James ‘Stewart’ Hamilton, 59, of Jennings Street, Pinehurst, died late on Sunday night.

A 63-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.

He has been bailed pending further investigation and police have renewed an appeal for witnesses.

His sister, Cherry Read, paid tribute to the popular cyclist.

She said: “Stewart, as he was known to his family and friends, was a single man who lived alone.

“However he leaves behind a sister, three brothers and several nephews and nieces who will greatly miss him.

“Stewart used to work at the Post House Hotel and at Batleys Cash and Carry.

“He had a number of hobbies, in particular he was a keen snooker and cards player and was a member of the Penhill Royal British Legion, where he had been a mace bearer for several years.

“Stewart also enjoyed cycling and was a familiar figure riding his bike around the Pinehurst and Penhill areas.

“It’s so tragic that Stewart died in these circumstances.

“He will not only be missed by his family but by his many friends.”

Police officers working on the case have urged any witnesses to the incident to come forward as soon as possible, as any piece of information could prove vital in piecing together the events which took place.

The collision happened at the junction between Whitworth Road and Pinehurst Road on Sunday at 10.50pm.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, based in Chippenham, on 0845 408 7000, or information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.