A LEDBURY-based arable specialist was killed last Saturday (June 30) on his first motorcycle riding lesson.

George Urquhart, 36, who worked for Dalgety Agriculture Ltd, had been on a one-day course with the Midlands School of Motorcycling at Long Marston airfield in Warwickshire. It was the first time he had ridden a motorcycle.

Sarah Holden, of Dalgety, said that Mr Urquhart, a single man who lived with his parents in Wellesbourne, near Stratford-upon-Avon, had been with the Castle Frome firm for over 10 years.

She said he would be greatly missed by all those who had worked with him.

The accident happened at 4pm on a sweeping bend of the B4632 at Preston Fields, near Clifford Chambers, as Mr Urquhart, a fellow learner and instructor Dennis Smith were returning to the school following a two-hour road lesson around Stratford.

Police said he appeared to be negotiating the bend when the collision, involving the 125cc Honda and a coach travelling towards Stratford, happened. Mr Urquhart was thrown off the bike and into the path of a Ford Escort that was behind the coach.

The road was closed for four hours after Mr Urquhart was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in the Escort was treated for shock at Warwick Hospital.

Glynn Garrad, owner of the motorcycling school, said it was the first time in 10 years of business that something like this had happened.

As part of the beginners' compulsory basic training course, Mr Urquhart had received practical skills training and an explanation of the legal requirements of riding a motorcycle before he was allowed on the road.

Mr Urquhart's mother Pat said her son was passionate about country pursuits, especially shooting.

She said he had been a great support after her husband, also named George, suffered a stroke eight years ago, leaving him permanently disabled.

Mr Urquhart was a former member of Shipston Young Farmers.