A CYCLIST killed in a collision on a country road close to Bolton Abbey was taking part in an organised ride.

Forty-four-year-old father of three, Craig Armitage, was taking part in the Otley Reliability Ride to Kettlewell on Sunday when the incident happened.

The collision took place at about 11.30am on the B6160, between Bolton Abbey and Barden Tower, and involved a silver Hyundai i30 car travelling towards Barden.

Mr Armitage was travelling in the opposite direction, on the bends in the Bolton Abbey Estate between the Cavendish Memorial Fountain and the archway, with two other cyclists. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Otley Reliability Ride was one of seven organised rides in Yorkshire scheduled between January and March with the support of British Cycling.

Two rides, of 50km and 100km, took place on Sunday, starting in Otley and heading through Ilkley, Addingham and into North Yorkshire.

Friends have described Mr Armitage as a very sociable family man, who was passionate about cycling and helping others.

Friend and business partner, Jonathan Farnaby, who had started up Otley-based cycle coaching firm In Gear Coaching with him, described him as a “good friend, an excellent father and a great husband”.

He added: “He was a very safe and careful cyclist. We are in total shock.”

Police are appealing for witnesses.

Traffic Constable Ken Riley, of Skipton Roads Policing Group, said: “If you witnessed the incident – or saw the car or cycles involved prior to the collision – I urge you to come forward as you may have important information that could assist the investigation. I would also like to thank the members of the public who stopped at the scene to lend assistance in the immediate aftermath of this tragic incident.”

Anyone who can help should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two, and ask for Traffic Constable Ken Riley or Skipton Roads Policing Group. Alternatively, information can be emailed to kenneth.riley@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk Reference number 12150025569 should be quoted by anybody offering information.