The family of two brothers who died on the A595 yesterday has paid tribute to much adored and loved sons.

Police today formally identified the two cyclists who died in a collision with a coach at around 2:55pm on Sunday as Christian David Michael Townend, 29, and 21-year-old Nicholas Rowan Townend.

Christian and Nicholas, always known as ‘Niggy’, Townend were devoted brothers who shared a passion for cycling, a sport at which their family say they were both experienced and talented.

They had been returning home after a cycling ride in the Silloth area when the collision occurred.

Both brothers were former students at Cockermouth School where they enjoyed a wide circle of close friends.

Christian graduated from Sheffield University in 2003 with a degree in Pharmacology and worked in Cumbria for United Utilities as a scientific officer.

Niggy was working at the Kirkstyle Inn in Loweswater while making arrangements for his future with plans to further his education at university prior to a career in journalism.

The eldest and youngest respectively of a close and loyal family of four brothers, also including Richy and Robin, they all grew up together in Lorton and Cockermouth.

They were the adored sons of Eleanor and Mike, and grandsons of Anne, and much loved by their widely extended family and many friends.

They will be particularly missed by their cousins including Sarah, Tor and Alice who were their childhood playmates and close confidents.

Speaking on behalf of the family, their mother Eleanor, said: “My beautiful sons were loved by all who knew them.

"Their zest for life and lively sense of humour never failed to bring us joy.

"They shared a love of the outdoors and the local area.

"They will be greatly missed and never forgotten.”

West Cumbria Roads Policing Unit has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.

As part of this the driver of the coach, a 42-year-old man from Carlisle, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

He was taken to Workington Police Station and interviewed before being released on bail to return on 6 February 2011 while the investigation continues.

Police are appealing for any witnesses to the incident who have not already made contact with investigating officers to contact West Cumbria Roads Policing Unit on 0845 33 00 247.