TRIBUTES have been paid to a Basingstoke cyclist who died in a horror crash on a major Hampshire road.

Father-of-two Lee Martin, 48, from Basingstoke, was taking part in a time trial for the North Hampshire Road Club when he was involved in a collision with a white Ford Transit van on the A31, near Bentley, at around 7.30pm last Wednesday.

He was airlifted to John Radcliffe Hospital, in Oxford, but was later pronounced dead.

Police have confirmed that a 29-year-old from Alton, who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, has been bailed until December 18.

In a statement, Mr Martin’s family said: “Lee’s sudden death has been a terrible shock and we are all devastated. He will be sorely missed by his family, including his wife and two daughters.

“He was a protective and loyal husband, father, son and brother.

“Big Lee will be missed by many friends and family members, but he will never be forgotten.”

As a mark of respect, North Hampshire Road Club cancelled this week’s club time trial, which was due to take place last night.

Instead members of the club were due to gather on a bridge close to the scene of the collision to pay tribute to the 48-year-old.

Members of the club have shared their memories of Lee, such as his transformation from “distinctly overweight” to the “guy to beat”.

The 48-year-old recently completed the Prudential Ride London-Surrey 100, which sees cyclists take on a 100-mile route through London and Surrey.

He completed the course in an impressive five hours, despite spending three hours cycling from Basingstoke to London the day before to register.

Barry Tooke, press secretary at the club, told The Gazette: “Lee was a top bloke; a really powerful rider, good-natured mickey-taker, and capable of blistering profanity when the occasion required.

“The world is a poorer place without him, he’ll be remembered well.”

Anyone with information on the crash is asked to contact police on 101.