A Cornish charity has paid an emotional tribute to its vice chair following his sudden death at the weekend.

Cornwall Blood Bike Charity said it was with “the heaviest, saddest heart” to announce the death of its vice chair Ian Prout.

Charity chair Jayne Penlerick paid tribute to Ian for his dedication for more than seven years. She said: “On behalf of the entire charity, we pay tribute to Ian for his dedication for over seven years, committing himself to advanced riding, co-ordinating, taking our NHS calls and dispatching riders, fundraising, attending talks and raising awareness of what we do.

“Ian also managed our Blood Bike fleet cameras to ensure they were updated alongside looking after other technology including filming the launch of our ‘Blood on Board’ Bike; BMW 1 ‘Henry John Surtees’”.

Falmouth Packet: Ian was described as a 'tower of strength' and a remarkable human being Ian was described as a 'tower of strength' and a remarkable human being (Image: Cornwall Blood Bikes)

Jayne said that Ian had been an “unwavering support” as her vice chair and in turn to the entire committee and trustees.

“A sounding board, a friend, a confidant, who believed passionately in our charity, and championed our professionalism, always acting in the very best interests of the charity,” Jayne added.

Ian who was described as a ‘tower of strength’ was also passionate about being involved with the local community and helping people, groups and organisations.

The charity has sent its deepest condolences, love, thoughts and prayers to Ian’s wife, children, family and friends at this sad time, as well as operations manager Tim and his family and rider Ted who shared a “precious” friendship spanning over 30 years.

In a touching message at the end of the tribute for Ian, charity members said they would “cherish and remember” what he had done to touch the lives of others.

“It’s heartbreaking news for all that were blessed to have crossed his path in life.

“As a charity that will struggle to come to terms with his loss, and all that knew his remarkable humble human being, which I know for some very many of us were proud and privileged to call him a friend and will feel so very lost without.

“Rest in peace Ian, and may the wind always be at your back as you travel the winding roads.”