Funeral details of Cumbrian motorsport businessman Paul Bird have been confirmed.

The Langwathby-based businessman, a leading figure in motorsport for decades, died earlied this month aged 56.

A private funeral service will be held at Eden Valley Crematorium on Friday, September 22 at 12.30pm.

It will be followed by a gathering at Roundthorn Country House, Roundthorn, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 8SJ.

A statement from Mr Bird's business, PBM Motorsport, added: "All friends are welcome to go directly to Roundthorn House where the entire service will be livestreamed and afterwards there will be refreshments and tributes to Paul from family and friends.

"The funeral cortege will leave Langwathby and travel via the B6412 to Culgaith en route to the crematorium for anyone wishing to pay their respects.

"Family flowers only please, but if desired, donations in memory of Paul, which will be divided between Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland, Pride of Cumbria Air Ambulance and Down’s Syndrome Association, may be made at the service or gathering, or sent c/o Richardsons Funeral Directors, Victoria Road, Penrith, CA11 8HR."

It was announced on September 1 that Mr Bird had passed away suddenly after a short time in hospital with illness.

Mr Bird, a former rally driver and motocross rider, enjoyed huge success with his teams over the years, and was the British Superbike Championship's most successful owner.

His global motorsport operation has won a series of titles on two and four wheels.

Currently its teams include the BeerMonster Ducati superbike team, while Mr Bird's son Frank is a top rally driver.