THE family of a "doting father" who was killed when the motorbike he was riding crashed into a metal gate have paid tribute to him.

John Scotson, aged 27, of Newton Road, Lowton, died after he and a friend had taken a Yamaha 250cc off-road motorbike for a test ride on tracks in the Lowton area.

They were riding along a bridleway in Pennington Country Park, when they tried to negotiate a left-hand bend and the bike collided with a metal gate. Paramedics pronounced Mr Scotson dead at the scene.

Mr Scotson's friend suffered a facial injury and a suspected fracture to his leg and hand.

John's partner, Kate Collier, said: "John was a much loved partner and friend, father to Josh and Leah who will be missed very much by all his family and many friends."

Mr Scotson's mother Michelle Harriet and sister Samantha Scotson added: "John was a beloved son, nephew, doting father to Leah and Joshua, loving partner to Kate and a special friend to many.

"He will be sadly missed by all."

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to call traffic police on 0161 856 7201.