The family of a former police officer who died following a collision in Macclesfield have paid tribute to him.

Russell Thomas, 60, from Macclesfield, was the motorcyclist involved in a collision with a black Land Rover Freelander.

The incident occurred on Pexhill Road at around 4.30pm on Tuesday 17 May.

Sadly, Russell passed away at the scene.

His family are being supported by specialist officers.

The Tytherington resident used to work as a police officer in Macclesfield. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

In a joint tribute, his family said: "A loving tribute to Russell Thomas, who sadly passed away on 17th May in a motorbike collision. Russell came to Macclesfield in 1986, his parents Ann and Owen owned the Moorhayes House Hotel on Manchester Road in Tytherington.

"He became a police officer in Cheshire, covering Macclesfield, Wilmslow, and Congleton.

"He enjoyed spending time with his family and was an active member of Tytherington Family Worship Church.

"His career policing the roads found him in cars and on motorcycles during the years when the Cat and Fiddle Road attracted many road users. He was also the neighbourhood policing sergeant in Congleton, and Congleton Sherriff and was hugely active within the town.

"He lived in Tytherington with his wife Sara, working full-time as a Security Officer at Recipharm following retiring from the Police after 30 years' service. Recently, he celebrated his 60th Birthday, having a large party at the Pack Horse Bowling Club at which he was able to meet up with friends, many of whom he hadn't seen for years.

"Between them, Russell and Sara have four grown up children and two grandchildren - to Russell, family was everything.

"Russell was loved by so many and is missed by many more."

His wife Sara said: "Russell changed the course of my life. Our shared faith brought us together and he lived life to the full with me each and every day. He was extremely proud of all of our children and was never short of advice, love, and a helping hand. He was a huge DIY enthusiast, always building or improving something at home or wherever his skills were needed.

"He just liked to help people. He was the most generous and kind man I have ever met. He has left an enormous hole in our family."

Russell's children Joshua, Naomi, Sophie, and Oliver said: "He was someone who chose to approach life with joy, enthusiasm, faith, and hope. He had an abundance of optimism and many plans and dreams for us all.

"He touched people's hearts with only a few exchanges, unconditional love, and a smile as wide as you could imagine. He enriched the lives of those he encountered, could talk forever, and made the world a better place.

"He was an extraordinary son, amazing husband, incredible dad, and proud grandad."

Officers are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have dashcam footage or witnessed the collision to get in touch.

Anyone with any information or dashcam footage in relation to the incident is asked to report it to Cheshire Constabulary here quoting IML 1271223, or call 101.

Information can also be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or report it via this link.

Please note: The scene of the incident is not to be confused with Pexhill Road in Gawsworth.

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