As Bill Head’s coffin arrived in Victoria Road the air was filled with the roar of engines and the smell of petrol.

It was a fitting tribute to the man who for more than 50 years was the face of Preston’s motorcycle scene.

Dozen of bikers turned out to accompany Bill’s coffin down Watling Street Road to Christ Church, Fulwood, for the packed funeral on Thursday (25 October).

Bill, 90, died at home surrounded by his loving family on Saturday October 13, after a long health struggle.

As his health deteriorated, his family asked if there was anything he would like to say to everyone who has supported him over the years.

“Aye,” Bill replied, “just say thanks.”

For more than five decades, Bill Head was the go-to guy for motorbike sales and parts in Preston, after starting his business in a lock-up in Ellen Street, Deepdale, in 1952.

His passion for petrol took him all around the world, with regular trips to Japan, Germany and the Isle of Man with Honda, his beloved franchise.

He soared to success at the Isle of Man TT Races in 1977 – 79, entering three winning bikes into the prestigious motorcycle race.

From its humble beginnings the business grew, and by Bill’s retirement in 2006, the family firm had sites in Southgate, Longridge, Walton Summit and Corporation Street, employing hundreds of Prestonians.

Read more: Harris Park orphanage site up for sale

Bill’s daughter Jill, said: “Motorbikes were his life. They were in his blood. After his family, they were his main passion.”

You can leave your tributes to Bill in the comments below