The family of a motorcyclist who was killed in a crash in South Lanarkshire last month have said they are “heartbroken” by his loss.

James Gray, 57, had been riding a Suzuki GSX-R motorbike when it was involved in a collision with a silver Renault Master van on the A70 at Lanark.

The collision happened at about 3.20pm on Monday August 24.

Emergency services attended but Mr Gray was pronounced dead at the scene.

Jim was always the joker, never let life get him down, sarcastic, witty and always said what was on his mind

Family statement

In a statement released through Police Scotland, Mr Gray’s family said he will “forever be loved and missed by all”.

“We are heartbroken at the sudden loss of our dad, grandpops, brother, partner, father-in-law, uncle and great friend to many,” the statement read.

“Jim was always the joker, never let life get him down, sarcastic, witty and always said what was on his mind.

“He loved to sing and dance around the house which kept us all laughing and smiling.

“Jim’s grandson brought a special kind of happiness into his life, that bond and their love will stay with us forever.

“He will forever be loved and missed by all.

“Always remember, think bike, think biker.”

Sergeant Stephen MacDonald said: “Our thoughts remain with James’ family at what is an extremely difficult time for them.

“Inquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances and we are continuing to appeal to anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward.

“If you were driving in the area at the time, please check any dashcam footage to see if it has captured anything which could assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident 1920 of Monday August 24.