Respected academic dies after being knocked off his bike by speeding motorist being chased by police
Dr Andrew Platten, 55, was killed when he was hit by a silver Vauxhall Vectra in his home town of Bingley, West Yorks
AN ACADEMIC has died after he was knocked off his bicycle by a speeding motorist during a police chase.
Keen cyclist Dr Andrew Platten, 55, was killed when he was hit by a silver Vauxhall Vectra in his home town of Bingley, West Yorks, at about 7.30pm on Tuesday.
The driver of the Vectra, a 22-year-old man from Bradford, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
He has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Dr Platten’s family described him as a well-respected academic, who was a loyal friend and family man, with a passion for cycling.
A post-mortem examination confirmed he died of multiple injuries.
Dr Platten’s family said in a statement: “Andrew excelled as a respected and dedicated academic, with a love for art, poetry and music.
"For anyone that knew him, cycling was his true passion as he became a recognised competitive rider on the roads.
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“Most importantly he was a loved friend, loyal brother and uncle, loving partner and a truly inspirational father.
"He will be deeply missed, but he has left his stamp on all who met him.
"He will always be cherished and never forgotten, living on in all our hearts.”
Dr Platten was the chairman of the Centre for Knowledge Excellence, an enterprise hub based at Leeds Beckett University.
A letter to his colleagues there today also praised Dr Platten's work ethic and described his distinguished career.
It said: "As a team who have worked very closely with Andrew, we always found him to be a very supportive and caring colleague with a strong commitment to the University, our students and our business networks and partners.
"He will be very much missed and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."
Enquiries are continuing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Major Collision Enquiry Team on 101, quoting log 1743 of July 19.