A MOTORCYCLIST who died in a collision on Sunday has been named.

Dean Walkden, from Haslingden, was pronounced dead at the scene on Fell Road, at the junction of Mill Lane, Waddington.

The 39-year-old had been riding his Kawasaki motorcycle which was in collision with a Ford Mondeo at around 11.30am.

It is thought he was heading towards the village of Bentham in the Yorkshire Dales.

Mr Walkden, a sheet metal worker, who lived in Heys Street, was thrown from his machine.

Despite help from the emergency services, Mr Walkden was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr Walkden, who worked at East Lancashire Fabrications in Accrington, also ran a DJ company called Platinum Presentations.

He often DJed at The Plough, Oswaldtwistle, The Masons, Ramsbottom, The Queens, Rawtenstall, The Roebuck and The Commercial, in Haslingden.

Mr Walkden planned to celebrate his 40th birthday in November with a cruise around the Caribbean.

The former Haslingden High pupil was the long-term partner of Kirsty George, 32.

The couple had been together for seven years and had lived in Australia for two years.

He also leaves his sister Andrea, parents Barbara and Ian and cousin Andy.

In a brief tribute today, Dean’s family said: “Dean was a hard working lad as a sheet metal fabricator, DJ and karaoke host and was a loving son and brother.

"He lived life to the full, enjoying driving, riding his motorbike, diving, travelling and BBQs.

"He was never without a smile and will be sadly missed by us all.”

The road was closed for four hours while officers carried out an investigation.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Sgt Steve Wignall said: “An investigation into the circumstances surrounding this collision is now underway.

"If anybody was in the area at the time and witnessed it I would urge them to come forward.

“The motorcyclist was travelling with another rider and I would urge anybody who may have seen any of the three vehicles prior to the collision to contact police.”

The man and a woman in the Ford Mondeo were unhurt but treated for shock.

Anybody with any information is asked to contact police on 08451 25 35 45 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.