Retired farm worker Jim Loveridge, 71, was riding his bicycle when he was involved in a collision with a Mercedes car along Wingrave Road in Long Marston on Sunday, July 6 at around 10.30pm.

His daughter-in-law Ruby Loveridge said: "Jim will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

"He was a kind and loving man and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

"He was very active for his age and loved going out on his bike.

"He had travelled that road so many times, it is so awful that this has happened, we are all in a state of shock."

Mr Loveridge, who lived on a caravan site in Cheddington Lane, Long Marston, had been married to wife Susan for more than 30 years and retired just a few years ago.

He spent much of his life working on farms and had lived in both Herts and Essex.

The father of two sons and grandfather to seven was a regular at the Black Horse pub in Frogmore Street, Tring where he enjoyed a game of darts.

However, it is not known whether he had been there on the evening of his death.

He kept a Jackdaw bird that he was teaching to talk and also had two pet dogs.

Mrs Loveridge added: "He had such a big heart and loved all creatures and types of animal, he would never have harmed a fly.

"He was a well known and much loved character and he will be missed by everyone who knew him.

"He was so outgoing and always had time to stop and have a chat and a laugh with people.

"Jim will be missed by so many people. We are all devastated by what has happened. Life will never be the same again."

The motorist involved in the collision failed to stop and emergency services were called by a passerby. However, Mr Loveridge was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police are investigating the incident and would like anyone with information to call PC Mike McCoy on 0845 33 00 222 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A 49-year-old man from Tring has since been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on police bail until September 19.

An inquest into the death of Mr Loveridge has been opened and adjourned. The cause of death is recorded as multiple injuries.

Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral of Mr Loveridge at St Peter's Church in High Street, Berkhamsted at 1.30pm on Thursday, July 24.


Pay tribute to Mr Loveridge by clicking here.


Tributes:

From: Tony Marshall

"I won't forget you for a long time Jim, another pointless death on a country road."