TRIBUTES have been paid to one of Bolton’s most knowledgeable men on the road.

Hugh German passed away on December 1, aged 90.

He was one of the early members of Bolton and District Advanced Motorists, has been recognised by the Greater Manchester Police Driving School with an Outstanding Achievement Award.

Hugh died with his family by his side.

He was the dearly loved husband of Lois, wonderful dad to Janet and Alison, a cherished grandad to Jessica, Joe, Isobel and Louis and a besotted great grandad to Poppy. Much loved brother, uncle and a true friend to many.

Mr German, a former maths teacher at Bolton County Grammar School and later at Smithills Sixth Form College, said only three Advanced Driving Groups existed in Lancashire in the 1960s.

Members of the community left tributes for Hugh.

Dave Finney said: “So sad to hear. Hugh was one of my first contacts with the group way back in the 1990s. Very friendly and welcoming. I always found him to be the consummate professional. A true gentleman.”

Ray Williams, driving instructor, of 2 pass said: “Very very sad to hear that Hugh has passed away. Hugh was a true gentleman and I loved him, if it wasn’t for Hugh I wouldn’t have carried on with my course, Hugh gave me the courage and confidence to pass the course, he also helped me to go on and do the observer course and also the diploma course. John and I send our condolences to the family.”

Hugh passed his Advanced Test in 1966 in a Morris 1100 and remembers having to give hand signals to slow down at zebra crossings — and because there were no electric windows he had to wind it down first.