WARM tributes have been paid to a 'first class' retired firefighter killed in a motorcycle accident.

Giovanni Richetta was involved in a head-on crash with a car on the notorious Austwick bends on the A65 near Clapham, at around 12.10pm yesterday.

The 52-year-old had been a firefighter for 30 years with West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service (WYFRS) and was held in high regard by colleagues and bosses.

WYFRS Chief Fire Officer Simon Pilling said the organisation had "a very heavy heart" after hearing about the recently retired Watch Commander's death.

Mr Pilling said Gio, as he was known to workmates, joined the fire service on the same recruits course as him in 1985.

"Gio served at various stations across Leeds and Bradford district, before ending his career in the Operational Resource Pool, performing his duties wherever required.

"He was an incredibly popular, well respected and fun-loving character who appeared to be always smiling and making friends wherever he went.

"He was larger than life and never failed to see the funny side of things, but there was also a serious side to him.

"Professionally, he was a first class firefighter who gave 30 years dedicated service to West Yorkshire.

"He was hugely proud of being a firefighter, it was everything to him," Mr Pilling said.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

WYFRS Chief Fire Officer Simon Pilling makes a presentation to Watch Commander Giovanni Richetta on his retirement

"Gio was skilled in building construction and was very practical minded, helping others wherever and whenever he could, without seeking reward.

"We were sorry to see him retire last September and it is devastating that he will now not have the opportunity to enjoy the retirement he so deserved.

"For him to have left us on Valentine’s Day is a bittersweet reminder of the love he shared with us all. He was a true gem."

Mr Richetta was a Watch Commander at Fairweather Green station and also wokred at Bradford.

Dan Hornsby worked with Mr Richetta occasionally between 2009 and 2014. He described him as a happy person who was often singing, laughing, joking and giggling.

“Gio was well liked and respected among crews. His contagious happiness spread far and wide. My life improved significantly through knowing him, and I am deeply saddened that he is no longer with us," he said.

“He was just a pleasure to interact with. Ever the optimist, he loved to make people smile. What a man.”

Mr Richetta, a father and grandfather, lived in Wrose, Shipley.

Flowers were yesterday left outside the semi-detached house, which had its curtains closed.

Neighbours were distraught at the news of his death.

"Everybody loved him and he was known as "Fireman Gio" by all the children who thought he was their hero," said Amy Bland, 34.

"I grew up here so I've known Gio since I was a child. We're all devastated, it's a huge loss.

"He was so kind and helpful, especially with building work - once he spotted there was a slate loose of my roof and came over with his ladders to fix it."

She said Mr Richetta's daughters Daniella and Sofia were both in their 20s. He was born in Italy, but attended the former Grange Grammar School in Bradford.

Mrs Bland said: "He always had fresh flowers in the house and whenever there was a party, Gio would get his guitar and get everyone joining in. We can't imagine not hearing his singing any more.

"During the Royal Wedding we closed off the road and had a street party where he cooked pizzas for everyone.

"He loved his motorbike, which he called "Millie."

"Every Sunday at 8.30am he'd set off for a ride out when the weather was fine and he was always working on the bike, making sure it was perfect.

"He was such a bubbly character with a great giggling laugh. It's just so sad."

North Yorkshire Police is appealing for witnesses to the fatal crash.

A Force spokesman said the accident involved a red, old-style Moto Guzzi motorcycle that was being ridden into the Craven district and a blue Peugeot 206 travelling towards Lancashire.

Mr Richetta was pronounced dead at the scene. 

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The driver of the Peugeot, a 43-year-old Keighley woman, and her nine-year-old daughter who was in the front passenger seat, were taken to Airedale General Hospital by ambulance. Their injuries are not believed to be serious, but they were left badly shaken by the incident.  

A section of the road was closed for five hours while a full collision investigation was carried out and vehicles were safely recovered.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward or anyone who recalls seeing the blue Peugeot or the red motorcycle prior to the crash.

Mr Richetta was wearing a black motorcycle suit and a distinctive white helmet with red and green stripes from the Italian flag.  

  • Witnesses should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for Dave Seavers or the Major Collision Investigation Unit. Or e-mail MCIT@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk and quote reference 12160026930.