John Maris, 70, died in a collision near Shilton - the village where he lived - on Saturday (October 11).

His family has released the following tribute to him:

"John was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, friend and colleague. He had been in the army during National Service, he had worked in the NHS for many years, obtained a degree whilst working full time then, after retirement, worked part time as a University lecturer. All of this says nothing of the man himself.

"John's age was not important, as he was perhaps younger within himself at the time he was taken from us than he had ever been. His life was full of things that stimulated him, that challenged him and that he found immense satisfaction from being involved in. He lived in the "now" with total commitment, passion and pride in what ever he did. He never forgot the past, but would step aside if he could no longer give the total dedication to previous undertakings rather than see these areas wither from half hearted commitment.

"John was one of life's characters, he was a true gentleman in the old sense of the word but adapted this persona with a razor sharp wit and genuine enthusiasm for life. It was this unique mix of qualities that drew so many people to John, a person who could lift your soul on the darkest of days. He also had a cheeky, mischievous side that tested and tried people, digging deep to find the true character of others. Those that parried back were the very people John was draw towards and sparked from.

"John could always be relied upon to give an honest and to the point opinion, whether it was asked for or not! He never promised to do anything that he knew that he might not be able to deliver. He never gave false flattery or courted favour by agreeing meekly with those around him. He never chose the easy route if it conflicted with his own beliefs. For these reasons he could, on occasions, be perceived as stubborn, obstinate or difficult. John could always be relied upon to give sage council where appropriate to those who sought it.

"In recent years, John had focused his attentions on three main areas outside family and friends: Moto Guzzi motor bikes, freemasonry and in particular The Mike Hailwood Lodge; and being a university lecturer and mentor. All knew him as a man with immense enthusiasm, tireless dedication, a quick wit and cheeky humour, a practical and pragmatic approach to problems and above all a man with energy, excitement, zeal and pleasure in his life and the people he met and held dear.

"John had an amazing history and has been known by many. He was many things to many people?and with tongue in cheek the following could always be said of him: Love him or hate him the one thing about John was that you could never ignore him.

"John's life had been rich with experiences, both good and bad, but he had not turned bitter or grown old inside. John loved life, you couldn't help but sense that when you spoke to him. It feels so wrong that he has now gone, but he will not be forgotten."