Kevin Aspinall (35), of Accrington, had been riding to work on his motorbike, on the M66, near Bury, when he was involved in a collision with a van, at about 6am, on Wednesday last week. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His brother Karl (36), of Hill Top Road, Old Whittington, told the Derbyshire Times this week: "Greater Manchester Police called me with the worst phone call of my life and what they said will haunt me forever. I'm devastated.

"I was working in Edinburgh and downed tools and my boss and family friend John Renshaw drove me to Accrington to be with Kevin's wife and family who were in a terrible way.

"Everyone around Chesterfield who knew Kevin will be deeply affected because he was so popular and fun-loving and was such a brilliant brother and family man who idolised his children."

The former Violet Markham School pupil and ex-Chesterfield Borough Council lorry driver moved to Accrington about five years ago and set up home with wife Nicola, their daughter Faye (3), and Nicola's children Cody (10) and Justin (13).

He had been travelling to work as a delivery driver, for Brakes Food Goods, of Manchester, on a blue Yamaha when the collision happened and was thrown into a central reservation.

Nicola (27) described Kevin, formerly of Whittington, as a beloved husband, son, brother and father and said he was a keen motorcyclist and golfer and loved music.

She added: "Kevin will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by family, friends and everyone that knew him."

He also leaves a mother in Chesterfield, a stepmother, nephews, nieces and in-laws.

An inquest and funeral have yet to be arranged.

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