TRIBUTES have poured in for a ‘humble’ motorcycling enthusiast who will leave a ‘big hole’ in the community.

Heartfelt tributes from across the area have flooded in for well-known biker George Bownass, who died on Monday following a long-term illness.

Mr Bownass, who is originally from Hawskhead but lived in Ulverston, was a member of Furness British Motorcycle Club for more than decade.

He was also a member of the newly-formed Vintage Motorcycle Club and the Velocette Owners Club.

Paul Taylor, secretary of Furness British Motorcycle Club, described his friend as an ‘all-round nice guy’.

Mr Taylor said: “I’ve known George for a number of years.

“He was always a friendly and welcoming guy who was a keen motorcycling enthusiast.

“He was a very active member of the club and committee and knew an awful lot about motorcycles.

“He was a well-liked guy who always had the time for everyone and anyone.

“He will be a sad loss to the club and community.”

Les Trotter, a veteran motorcycle racer, said Mr Bownass will be ‘sadly missed’ around the motorcycling community: “George attended most of the Bardsea Bike nights and when they relocated to Pennington he was often first there.

“He was a real nice chap and is certainly going to be missed around the local motorcycling scene.”

Furness British Motorcycle Club posted an online tribute for their ‘humble and gentle’ member.

It reads: “George’s life amongst motorcyclists and those of a wider community here in the Lake District touched many of us in a way that only his gentle and placid nature could.

“A humble man, who counted friendship, his cats and his motorcycles as his most valued possessions, along with his love of country music.

“He was never short of a friend to talk to about bikes and would always say hello to anyone he knew as he spotted them in the street.

“He will surely be missed the most by those who were closest to him.”