THE partner of a motorcyclist who died in crash with a fork-lift truck has spoken of her loss.

Stuart Earnshaw, 48, was riding towards Brighouse on Park Road in Elland at about 8am on Thursday morning when his rare 1970s Norton motorbike was in collision with a fork lift truck that was crossing the road.

The bike burst into flames and Mr Earnshaw, of Luddendenfoot, died at the scene.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, close to Elland Crematorium, but were unable to save him.

Rona Rendle, his partner of 20 years, said she was devastated.

She said: “Stuart was a multi talented man who played saxophone for the Jump Jive 'N' Wail band.

“Stuart restored classic bikes and was a member of the Norton Commando Owners Club of West Yorkshire.

“His family are devastated and he will be sadly missed by his colleagues and many friends.”

The fork-lift truck driver was unhurt.