A volunteer blood biker who was killed while transporting items for the NHS “died doing what he loved”, his family has said.

Russell Curwen, 49, was riding for North West Blood Bikes when his motorcycle collided with a white Jaguar XJR in Lancaster at about 7.45pm on Saturday.

Curwen, from Kendal, was airlifted to Royal Preston hospital where he died a short time later, Lancashire police said.

The Jaguar driver, a 65-year-old man from Morecambe, suffered minor injuries and was also taken to hospital.

Approximately 2,700 volunteer blood bikers carried out more than 56,000 runs last year ferrying vital equipment for the NHS, according to the Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes.

Releasing a picture of Curwen with his mother, Pat, on his blood bike, his family paid tribute to the man they said “liked to live life to the full”.

His family added: “He had a keen interest in active hobbies including diving, skiing, mountain biking and surfing, however it was for his employment as a medical services support driver and his voluntary work for the Blood Bike North West that Russell is best remembered.

“He gave up his time to take much-needed, vital blood supplies to hospitals to help people who needed it most, and Russell died doing what he loved.

“Russell is a much-loved son, brother and uncle and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Police have appealed for anyone with information about the collision to call 101 quoting number 1533 of 5 May.

Sgt Lee Harris from the road policing unit said: “My thoughts are with the family of Mr Curwen at this incredibly sad and difficult time.”