Tributes Paid To RSPB Film Maker

1 June 2011, 12:12 | Updated: 1 June 2011, 12:16

Tributes were paid to a film maker from Bedfordshire who was killed in a cycling accident in France.

Lesley Norman, who worked for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), died while on a bike ride with two friends near Lombez in the south of the country.

According to reports, a 33-year-old French woman hit the group with her car as she tried to overtake.

All three were knocked off their bikes and Ms Norman, 51, was pronounced dead at the scene.

She had worked for the RSPB for more than 20 years and lived near Sandy with her partner Andy Hay.

A spokesman for the RSPB said: "The RSPB is shocked and greatly saddened to hear of the tragic death of Lesley Norman, one of its highly valued staff, while on holiday in France this weekend.

"Lesley worked for the RSPB for the last 22 years, the major part of which was spent as the film production co-ordinator in the RSPB's internationally recognised, award-winning film unit.

"Her work professionally and as a volunteer made a great contribution to conservation and she will be sorely missed.

"Her passion and personal commitment to RSPB was considerable. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very sad time.''