TRIBUTES have been paid to a retired police officer who died after a crash on the A337 near Lymington last month.

Motorcyclist Michael Smith, 73, from Portmore, near Lymington, was involved in the crash with a Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Polo on September 19.

He suffered life-threatening injuries in the crash, and sadly died on October 4.

Mr Smith’s family have today paid tribute to the grandfather and father-of-three.

They said: “Mike Smith served as a police officer with the Metropolitan Police for more than 30 years. During that time he also served as an officer in the Territorial Army and later the Home Service Force.

“Upon retirement he continued to serve the community through volunteering for St John Ambulance and also organized the Lymington Poppy Appeal for many years with the Royal British Legion.

“He is survived by his wife, three children and four grandchildren, who will sorely miss his guidance and sense of humour.”

Investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision continue and anyone with information is asked to call Sgt Steve Antrobus on 101, quoting 44160354534.