A beloved father and grandfather described as a "true explorer at heart" has died after a collision with a van.
John Lyttle, 67, from Bradford-on-Avon, was cycling in Atworth on Wednesday, July 1, when the crash occured.
After suffering injuries, John died in hospital 10 days later.
In a heartfelt tribute, his family has described him as “a deeply adventurous, loving, and kind man” who was a husband, father to four and grandfather to four.
Mr Lyttle’s family said: "He had such a massive heart and was truly the life of so many people.
"John lived his life at the absolute peak of his fitness, bursting with energy and a passion for freedom and the great outdoors.
"He was a true explorer at heart—happiest when he was climbing mountain tops, taking every opportunity to explore the UK and countries abroad, or travelling to see his favourite bands at live music concerts.
"He knew how to embrace life to the absolute fullest."
A dedicated cyclist and motorbike enthusiast, he was known for covering hundreds of miles each month and loved the “freedom of the open road.”
Much of John's professional life was spent in the medical industry, and his commitment to helping others extended well beyond his career.
His family added: "Throughout his entire life, John’s true calling was helping others.
"His faith was his anchor, and he was a vital pillar of our local church—always ready to offer a listening ear, gentle guidance, or a helping hand to anyone who asked.
"John didn’t just talk about kindness; he lived it, regularly stepping out onto the streets of Trowbridge to help feed the homeless.
“Following his accident at the age of 66, he fought bravely for nine days, officially marking his 67th birthday before passing away on July 10th.
"His sudden loss leaves a deep, painful emptiness within us, and serves as a profound reminder: always cherish every single moment you have with your loved ones, because it can all be taken away so incredibly fast."
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Even in his final hours, Mr Lyttle continued to help others.
His family explained that he was an organ donor and that three families were given hope because of his final gift.
"Even in our deepest grief, we are immensely proud that John's final act on this earth was to give life to others," they said.
"It brings us immense comfort to know that John was given the absolute best chance of survival by people who didn't even know him, and for that, we are forever grateful."
The family has expressed deep gratitude to those who helped him at the scene, including bystanders who administered CPR, the Wiltshire Air Ambulance team, and the staff at Southmead Hospital.
