TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular academic, volunteer and charity fundraiser, who was hit by a car while out walking.

Andrew Brian Done, of Ainderby Steeple, near Northallerton, North Yorkshire, died in the incident, in the early hours of last Friday.

Mr Done, who was 42, was walking with a male friend when he was hit by a red Vauxhall Astra, on the A684, at Morton-on-Swale.

He leaves behind his parents, Brenda and Brian, and two brothers, Philip and Simon.

Mr Done's family said he will be "deeply missed".

In a statement, the family talks about Mr Done's love for travel, his charity work and his passion for pub quizzes.

It reads: "Andrew completed, among several other long-distance walks, the Coast to Coast, the Pennine Way and cycled from Land's End to John O'Groats, often raising money for local charities.

"In May, he completed the North Yorkshire Three Peaks, raising money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association."

Mr Done worked at Defra, in Northallerton, until ill health forced him to leave his post, in 2005.

He was granted a sabbatical from work to study for his first degree. In 2000, he became the first student to receive a Masters degree by research from the University College of Ripon and York St. John.

After leaving work, he carried our voluntary work for the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, and the North Yorkshire county archivists.

He was working on an academic manuscript about grouse, which was nearing completion, and which he intended to have published.

Mr Done's family said: "Andrew's outstanding memory made him a popular member of local quiz teams.

Often regarded as something of an eccentric, he was thought of with deep affection by many people in the local community."

A collection for a memorial fund has already begun, and fundraising is being planned at three of his favourite pubs; the Wellington Heifer, in Ainderby Steeple, the Old Royal George, at Morton-in-Swale, and the New Inn, at Thrintoft.

Mr Done's funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.

His family has thanked those who have offered messages of support and sympathy.

The driver of the Astra, a 19-year-old man from the Bedale area, was arrested and released on bail.

Witnesses are asked to call police on 0845-60-60-247.