THE family of tragic cyclist Kevin Harmon is inviting people to help celebrate the life of a ‘true gentleman’ as details of his funeral are announced.

A service will take place at Bolton Parish Church at 10am on July 20 followed by committal at Ridgmont Cemetery at noon and a funeral lunch at Bolton Cricket Club.

At Bolton Coroner’s Court an inquest into Mr Harmon’s death was opened by Professor Dr Alan Walsh.

He heard how 47-year-old keen cyclist Mr Harmon, who was known as Kev, was on Edge Lane, Horwich, on July 1 when he was involved in a collision with a car.

Police coroner’s officer Benjamin Dobbs told the hearing how Mr Harmon, who worked as head of registrars and coroners in Manchester, was pronounced dead by paramedics at the scene and formally identified using a passport provided by his family.

A post mortem was carried out which revealed that the cyclist, of Smithills Croft Road, Bolton, died as a result of chest injuries due to a road traffic collision.

“I understand there are still continuing police inquires,” said Mr Walsh.

Mr Dobbs confirmed that police are still looking for witnesses or people with information about the tragedy to come forward.

“I am happy to allow a period of time for the police to complete their inquiries,” said Mr Walsh, who is asking for an update report from the senior investigating officer by August 27.

No date was set for the full inquest into the death of Mr Harmon, who leaves a wife, Anne, children Ewan and Grace, parents and brothers .

“I know sometimes these investigations are quite lengthy, but it would be helpful if I could know, at least the direction of those inquiries as soon as they arise, said Mr Walsh.

Mr Walsh adjourned the inquest adding: “I obviously send my condolences to his family for his death.”

A 33-year-old man was arrested following the collision on suspicion of causing death by driving whilst disqualified but has since been released under investigation.

Mr Harmon’s death has led to an outpouring of tributes to the much-loved man, who was known for his caring, easy-going nature and ‘big, daft grin’.

In his memory a fund-raising page has been set up which has already raised more than £1,000 for The Christie.

To leave a tribute and donation visit kev-harmon-2021.muchloved.com