TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Southampton student killed in a motorbike crash.

David Frampton was killed when the motorbike he was riding was involved in a crash with a car in Lancashire on Wednesday.

Mr Frampton, 36, was an RAF veteran and studied life sciences and psychology at the University of Southampton between 1997 and 2000.

He also served in the Royal Air Force Regiment on 2, 27, and 58 squadrons in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mr Frampton, from Ramsbottom, died when the silver Honda motorcycle he was riding collided with an Audi A3 at around 4pm on Blackburn Road, near Egerton, Bolton.

He suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, while the two occupants of the Audi were treated for whiplash, shock and minor cuts.

The road was closed for five hours while investigations took place.

In a statement, his family described Mr Frampton as a “courageous, warm-hearted, and devoted man who truly touched the lives of all he met”.

It read: “He was a much beloved husband, son, brother and friend.

"He was very highly regarded and received international commendation for his work in the protection of our servicemen and women.

“Upon leaving the RAF he dreamt of becoming a teacher and had obtained his first post supporting children with special needs.

“David had a huge range of interests and was phenomenally well read. He loved his motorbikes, and playing golf. His loss is indescribable. Per ardua ad astra.”

Police are not treating Mr Frampton's death as suspicious and there have been no arrests.

Sgt Malcolm Bell, of Lancashire police’s road policing team, said: “We are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the collision or seen the motorbike in the area to get in touch.

“It is a very difficult time for the family of the motorcyclist and they are being supported by trained officers.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log number 0851 of August 20 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.