Tributes to man killed in head-on crash outside Wrightington Hospital
“He was a loving and caring man, one of the most generous people you could meet...”
The family of a man who died in a crash in Wrightington have paid a loving tribute to him.
Derrick Stevens, 78, died after his VW Golf was involved in a head-on collision with a lorry outside Wrightington Hospital in Hall Lane shortly after 8am last Thursday (July 9).
Lancashire Police said his VW Golf failed to negotiate a bend and veered to the opposite side and into the path of the lorry.
Lancashire Police said the lorry driver was uninjured and is being treated as a witness, as the force continues to investigate the circumstances of the tragic collision.
Don’t miss the stories shaping Lancashire. Sign up to our free breaking newsletter
Derrick’s family have paid tribute to him, saying: “It is truly devastating what has happened, with him being taken away from us in such a shocking and abrupt manner.
“Words cannot express how we are feeling as we come to terms with his death. He was a loving and caring man to those who knew him, one of the most generous people you could meet, and the sort of person—by his own admission—who would happily talk to anyone about anything.
“He loved the outdoors. He would often meet up with his friends for a walk, usually involving a cuppa en-route or a pub meal at the end. He was an avid “twitcher,” birdwatching down at Martin Mere or enthusing about something slightly exotic at the bird feeder in his back garden.
“He enjoyed hiking, and his beloved Lake District was a favourite place to holiday and explore. He had recently returned from a break there and was full of detailed stories about the walking routes he’d taken, the great food he’d had, and the kindness of the people he’d stayed with.
“He had a uniquely wicked sense of humour; he was always ready with a joke and loved to make you laugh. He will be so deeply missed by his remaining family: Kristofer, Linda, Nicola, and Jacqueline, and of course his many friends.
“Our thoughts are also with the family of Anita as they come to terms with her loss.”
Investigation ongoing
Lancashire Police said an investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal crash are ongoing. The force continues to appeal for witnesses and footage.
Senior investigating officer, Sgt Martin Wilcock, added: “Very sadly this collision has resulted in two people losing their lives and my thoughts are with their loved ones.
“I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened and who has not yet spoken with police, or anyone with footage such as dashcam, CCTV or Ring doorbell to get in touch.
“I would also like to speak to anyone who saw the VW Golf driving in the moments before the collision.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or email [email protected], quoting log 0297 of July 9.