Family tribute to man who died in mobility scooter incident

The family of a Grasmere man who died after his mobility scooter overturned have today released a statement paying tribute to him.

Roy Formby, a retired art dealer from Grasmere, is described as a gentleman – polite, courteous and dignified.

His family said on Sunday:

"He loved the Lake District and the outdoors. When walking became difficult, he enjoyed riding on his specially adapted up-hill mobility scooter. He was out with his nephew when sadly, the incident happened.Born in Wigan, Roy started out as a draughtsman and mechanical engineer for Worsley Mesnes Ironworks and was sent all over the country to repair colliery winding engines. He left to set up his own cycling business in Wigan, Sam Mellings. His love of the Lakes led him to also set up an art business in Grasmere.Roy was a respected member of the community and had been very active in the village of Grasmere over the years. He was President and long-term member of Grasmere Village Society, a Trustee for Great Cross Trust and a member of Probus.Roy's interests centred around his great love of the outdoors. He had been a participating member of Wigan Wheelers, Ski Club of Manchester and Windermere Yacht Club. He was a keen walker and mountaineer at home and abroad, scaling the high fells into his later years. Roy was blessed with a keen sense of humour and sheer determination which was reflected by his positive outlook throughout life.He was a cherished, loyal and devoted husband, a much-loved uncle, great uncle and a friend to many. Roy will be sadly missed by all who knew him."

The accident happened at Red Bank Road in Grasmere at 4pm on Thursday, March 24th.

Mr Formby was airlifted to hospital but died later in the evening.

It is not believed that any other vehicles were involved.