TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'perfect gentleman' from Guiseley who has died following a road accident.

Local sources have confirmed that Gerald Long, 84, was the Guiseley man involved in a fatal collision on the A65, near Ingleton, on Friday, September 14.

The incident happened close to Whinney Mire Lane at about 3.49pm, when Mr Long was driving a blue Ford Fiesta, towards Settle, that was in collision with a white Mercedes Sprinter Tesco delivery van heading the other way.

Mr Long was airlifted to Preston Royal Infirmary but died a short time later. The driver of the Sprinter, a 62-year-old man from Carnforth, Lancashire, escaped with only slight injuries.

North Yorkshire Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dashcam footage to contact them by calling 101, selecting option 2, and asking for Andrew Ingram or the Major Collision Investigation Team Tadcaster*.

Friends of Mr Long, who was well known for his connections to many local groups including Yeadon Methodist Church, Aireborough Historical Society and Aireborough Rotary Club, say he will be sorely missed.

Carlo Harrison from Aireborough Historical Society announced his death on the group's Facebook page, where the message was read by 4,500 people in under 24 hours.

Mr Harrison said: "I am extremely sad to announce the death in a road traffic accident on Friday of my dear friend Gerald Long.

"For all of you who knew Gerald you will know that this perfect gentleman will be missed by so many people, the Methodist Church and of course the societies of which he has been a key member over many years.

"As President of Aireborough Historical Society Gerald was my inspiration to become involved in local history, it was his foresight that enabled me to begin to digitalise the archives and develop a Facebook page and website, both of which are now tremendously successful.

"This untimely death of one of the nicest men I have ever known leaves an empty space which will be almost impossible to fill."

Dozens of people added their own messages of condolence. Pam Oliver said: "Very sad news and a great loss", while Patricia Douglas posted: "Condolences to all the family. Gerald was the loveliest man who will be sadly missed."

Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough MP Stuart Andrew told the Wharfedale & Aireborough Observer: "I was really upset to hear the news about Gerald.

"He was someone I first met when I was a councillor for the area as he was involved in a lot of local organisations.

"He clearly loved Aireborough and will be missed by many local residents.

"My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time."

*Anyone with information is asked to quote reference number NYP-14092018-0295 when getting in touch.