Tributes paid to ex-serviceman from Ripon killed in tragic collision near Yorkshire village

A driver killed in a collision in North Yorkshire last month was a former soldier from Ripon, his heartbroken family has revealed.
By Susie Beever
Published 6th Aug 2020, 16:58 BST
Updated 6th Aug 2020, 17:02 BST
Keiran Rafferty in his red Lexus coupe, which he was driving at the time of the collisionKeiran Rafferty in his red Lexus coupe, which he was driving at the time of the collision
Keiran Rafferty in his red Lexus coupe, which he was driving at the time of the collision

Keiran Rafferty was driving along the A61 towards the village of Skipton-on-Swale when his red Lexus coupe left the road on Saturday, July 25.

The 60-year-old was killed in the collision, which is still being investigated by North Yorkshire Police.

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Mr Rafferty's family has now issued a heartbreaking tribute to the ex-serviceman who served in the 49 Field Regiment Royal Artillery, describing him as a lover of music, cars and animals.

Keiran RaffertyKeiran Rafferty
Keiran Rafferty

Hi family said: "Keiran, who lived in Ripon, was previously of the 49 Field Regiment Royal Artillery.

"Keiran was born in Fife, Scotland and moved around the country with his parents as the mining community was diminishing.

"The family eventually settled in Stoke-on-Trent where Keiran attended local schools. Following this Keiran joined the armed forces, taking the opportunity to travel the globe and then working for over 30 years for a local family business.

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"Keiran was married for more than 25 years living in the Yorkshire area. He leaves behind his partner Debs of over seven years and their lovely doggies Nardie and Ozzy. Keiran will be terribly missed by his family and friends.

"Keiran was well known for his love of music and specifically for his passion for Northern Soul. Keiran loved cars and motorbikes which gave him a fabulous circle of friends and he hated to see any animal cruelty."

Anybody with information on the collision should contact North Yorkshire Police.

Related topics:RiponNorth YorkshireNorth Yorkshire PoliceLexus

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