THE family of a motorcyclist who was killed in a crash in Wilton Road on Sunday have paid tribute to “much loved and loving husband, father and grandfather” who raised thousands of pounds for charity.

Jeremy Keith McNally, known as Jess, died after his black Ducati motorbike was in collision with a silver Nissan Micra next to the golf driving range at about 1.20pm.

Mr McNally, 58, from West Grimstead, was married to Diana, and had two children, Kirsty and David, and grandchildren Orla and Erin.

A tribute released by Mr McNally’s family said: “As a former soldier, Jess’s irrepressible sense of humour and love of company put him at the heart of the many activities that he and Diana threw themselves into, especially in the small village where they lived.

“Having recovered from a brain tumour ten years ago, he and Diana were always aware that one day it might return so lived every day to the full. Together they founded and ran a highly successful charity event to support research into brain tumours and to purchase specialist equipment for local hospitals. Their annual Jurassic Challenge, along the Dorset coast, and their Sarum Junior Challenge has grown year by year and to date has raised tens of thousands of pounds with a particular focus on supporting the Smile4Wessex Children’s Neurosciences Centre.

“With his background in military engineering, Jess had an abiding fascination and enthusiasm for anything mechanical, be it cars, camera or his beloved Ducati. Jess was always generous in sharing his time and knowledge; whenever Jess’s garage door was open you knew that his consulting room was ready to dispense advice, a story and almost inevitably a beer or two.

“Jess was much loved and will be greatly missed by many.”

A third unknown vehicle was involved in the collision but did not stop at the scene and police are asking that driver to come forward and help with their investigation.

The driver of the Micra suffered life threatening injuries and was taken to hospital by air ambulance. He remains in hospital in a critical condition.

To make a donation in Mr McNally’s memory, contact Neil Westbrook, appeals co-ordinator at the Wessex Neurological Trust, on info@smile4wessex.org.