Tributes have been paid to a “much loved” Hull motorcycle instructor and technician, who tragically died in an accident on his motorbike earlier this month.
Michael – Mike – Dalley, also known by the nickname Mini, was travelling home on the B1362 between Halsham and Burstwick, in Holderness, when he was involved in an accident on Thursday, June 19. Mike, 27, was a respected instructor at Ideal Training in Hull and also worked as a technician at the city’s 5-Ways Motorcycle Centre.
Friends and colleagues have spoken about how highly valued Mike was by his workmates and customers. A GoFundMe appeal has been launched by close pal Gavin Thompson, who said: “We’re raising funds to support Mike’s family during this incredibly difficult time and to help give him the send-off he truly deserves.”
Gavin described Mike as a “kind-hearted soul who even through the toughest of times kept a smile on his face and never shied from a challenge”. He said: “He was perhaps one of the most experienced young riders I had the pleasure of knowing and being friends with.
“As a riding instructor, it speaks volumes of Mike’s character and personality. He valued safety over everything else and never left home without wearing protective gear. He was taken too soon.”
(Image: supplied image)
On the appeal page, where the total has reached over £2,500, Gavin said: “He was a much-loved son, brother, friend, and a bright light in the lives of so many. Mike worked as a respected instructor at Ideal Training, where he helped countless people—including myself—earn their CBT.
“He also worked as a technician at 5-Ways Motorcycle Centre, where he was highly valued by both his colleagues and customers. Everyone who met Mike was drawn to his happy-go-lucky personality.
“He always had a smile on his face and never hesitated to go the extra mile for others. His sudden and untimely passing has left a huge hole in the lives of all who knew him.
“Any contributions, no matter how small, will go directly to supporting his family with funeral expenses and giving Mike the heartfelt goodbye he deserves.”
Paying tribute to Mike, a spokesperson for Ideal Driver & Rider Training in Hull said the team had been “devastated” by the news of Mike’s death. “Mike you have left a huge hole in our lives. You will be missed every day as a friend, colleague and family member.
“Forever in our hearts and thoughts. Ride free mate, keep the lights on, the tyres warm and shiny side up.”
At 5-Ways Motorcycle Centre, a spokesperson said of “Mini”: “He was a great guy to have on the team and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. He was always smiling and cheerful, a ray of sunshine and one of life’s good guys.”
Among the personal tributes from friends and workmates, Jonathan said: “Mike was a lovely bloke, even managed to smile after fitting some very stiff walled tyres to my motorcycle which are known to be very difficult.” Sam said: “I’ve never been so privileged to work with someone younger than me who taught me so much.
“A powerful young soul, quick but slow, happy to have had little, to have had nothing, Mini, I miss you.”
Gavin said Mike had revived a passion for riding motorcycles in him. “I was grateful and fortunate to have had him as my instructor when I began riding again.
(Image: supplied image)
“We had some good times riding once I had passed my test. He’d never stop smiling and cracking jokes.
“Mike, you’re greatly missed by all. We will go for that ride we promised before you were taken from the world. Ride free up there.”
Gavin said people had been to the scene of Mike’s accident to place tributes, many of them observing a “very poor standard of driving” from motorists travelling the route. “They noticed that the road was wide enough for two vehicles to pass each other safely.
“Those travelling towards Withernsea/Burstwick were cutting the central white line rather than slowing down. It’s a gentle reminder that road safety is important for all, be courteous and considerate of others.”
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