HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a Barrow engineer who died in a bike crash.

Andrew Fallows, 48, who was killed when his motorbike collided with a VW Golf on Monday evening, was described as a ‘gentle giant’ by people who knew him.

The father-of-two had worked as a doorman at a number of bars and clubs in Barrow and later as an engineer.

He lived in Grange at the time of his death.

Mr Fallows, a keen biker, was pronounced dead at the scene following the incident on the A591 at Ambleside. Police are still investigating.

His family said: “Andy was the beloved father of Josh and Abbie, not only a father but a best friend.

“The most wonderful and loving son and the best brother in the world to his twin sister.

“The funniest, silliest, kindest gentle giant. He will be forever missed and always loved.”

Andrew Brereton, the owner of A1 Taxis in Barrow, had known Mr Fallows from the age of around 10.

“I haven’t seen him for many years but when I did see him he was always a happy and friendly guy,” he said.

“I know that he wouldn’t have changed much because that was the guy he was. He was always a nice, big, friendly guy.

“I’m still getting over the shock of it happening really."

“He will be sadly missed.”

Mr Fallows was believed to have worked for washing powder manufacturer McBride and as an electrical engineer at Kimberly-Clark.

He was said to have worked there for more than four years and left last month.

A spokeswoman said: “Kimberly-Clark extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Andy Fallows who was fatally injured in the traffic accident and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time.

“Andy Fallows was an electrical engineer at Kimberly-Clark’s Barrow facility for four-and-half years until last month when he left to pursue a new career opportunity.”

Mr Fallows was well-known in the motorbike community and attended a number of bike gatherings.

Pennington Bike Night paid tribute on Facebook, saying: "It was with sad news this evening I heard of Andy Fallows death from a motorcycle accident, Andy was a friend of mine and many of you who come along to our bike nights, also a regular he was known as a gentle giant and a really nice guy, from us all RIP.”

Darren John McSweeney wrote: “One of the nicest guys I’ve ever worked with. An absolute gentle giant of a guy.

“A very clever and talented engineer who loved a challenge. Rest in peace big lad.”

Anyone who witnessed the collision or who has information is urged to call police on 101 and ask to speak to PC 2392 Oliver Evans, quoting incident number 172 of the 29th July.