Family distraught after dad-to-be with "biggest heart" dies in bike crash two months before daughter's due date

A family has paid tributes to a dad-to-be who tragically died in a motorcycle crash just two months before his daughter was due to be born.

Michael Hanley, 39, was involved in a collision on Liverpool Road in Bickerstaff on Friday, June 16, at 9.30pm. Emergency services received reports of a motorbike that left the carriageway and a rider who had fallen off.

Lancashire Constabulary confirmed that Michael was pronounced dead at the scene. His family have paid tribute, stating that Michael had the "biggest heart" and "loved his family and friends so much". Lancashire Live reports.

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The family said: "Michael was a much-loved fiancé, son, brother, uncle, friend and daddy-to-be to his baby girl who is due in August. Michael was taken away from us far too soon at the age of 39.

"He was known to be a gentleman by people who knew him and would light up the room with his smile, huge personality and the warmest of hugs! He had the biggest heart and he loved his family and friends so much.

"Michael will be sadly missed and never forgotten, he will live on forever in his daughter, in our hearts and memories.”

Officers investigating the collision are now appealing for witnesses to the incident to share any information they may have. Sgt Paul McCurrie of Lancashire Police, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with Mr Hanley’s family at this very sad and distressing time for them.

"Our investigation into the collision is very much ongoing and we are appealing for witnesses who were using Liverpool Road around the time it happened.”

Anyone with information, please call 101 – quoting log 1543 of June 16, 2023 – or email 3361@lancashire.police.uk.

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