A talented Silsden trials bike rider has died suddenly, aged 67. Keith Horsman, of Bradley Road, died last week while working on a bike.

His wife, Susan, said: “In recent years, Keith was always to be seen around testing different bikes. Last year he competed in the East’s Beamish Trial, finishing in the awards.

“Keith was a very gentle man who always had time for people. He passed away with a spanner in his hand while working on a bike, which was his real passion.”

In 1971, Mr Horsman bought Kershaw’s Motorcycles in Bradford and specialised in providing British bike spares.

He then introduced competition trials bikes, starting with Montesa and then Bultaco, Ossa and Yamaha machines.

Susan added: “Keith also sponsored up-and-coming riders and rode bikes himself, winning many events. He was a member of the Horsforth, Yeadon and Guiseley and Bradford motor clubs.

“After eight happy and successful years at Kershaw’s, he sold the business to concentrate on motorcycle development, which was his passion. He worked on the cantilever Ossa, also fitting reed blocks to the bikes which he specialised in. He then worked on Fantic bikes before later moving on to pre-1965 bikes which included Triumph Cubs, AJS and Matchless machines.

“Keith also helped John Lampkin at the Scottish Six Days Trial for many years, helping a lot of riders get through the week.”

Mr Horsman’s funeral will be held at St Peter’s Church, Addingham, at 10.45am tomorrow. There will be a gathering at Silsden Golf Club after the funeral.