Wakefield: Teenage cyclist Lewis Smith dies after crash

A teenage cyclist has died following a crash with a stationary car near Pontefract.

Lewis Smith, 17, from Wakefield, died in hospital after suffering life-threatening injuries in the accident on 13 July, West Yorkshire Police said.

The force said he was involved in a crash with a red Fiat 500 on Station Road, Hemsworth.

In a tribute, his family said Mr Smith "lived to ride and race his bike" and that they were devastated by his death.

Mr Smith's family said: "We'd like to thank all the emergency services, the staff at Leeds General Infirmary, and in particular the local residents who tried to help Lewis at the scene.

"We're devastated by the loss of our son Lewis, he was a young man who lived to ride and race his bike, it was his life."

A spokesperson for Calder Clarion Cycling Club, where Mr Smith was a member, said: "We are all so proud to have called him our friend."

He added: "Lewis's ability and potential as a rider were only surpassed by his qualities as an exceptional young man.

"He was full of fun and cheeky comments, but incredibly caring, mature beyond his years, and always looking out for everyone else."

Mr Smith "loved riding and racing" and was "most often seen with a big smile on his face and wanting to share this love with all those around him", the club spokesperson said.

"He was looked up to by all ages in the club and his presence at the rides will be missed for many reasons."

Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].