Tributes paid to Wigan dad-of-two who died in M6 tragedy

Shortly before 11am on Monday, it was reported that a Mitsubishi Shogun and two lorries had been in collision on the M6 near Junction 23 at Haydock.

Emergency services attended and the driver of the Mitsubishi was, sadly, pronounced dead at the scene. The drivers of the lorries stopped at the scene to assist with enquiries.

Merseyside Police have today confirmed that the victim of Monday's tragic collision is Paul Maliczewski, aged 62, from Ashton-in-Makerfield, known as Big Paul.

Paul was married and a father to two grown up daughters whom he adored.

He was a well-known mechanic at Park Motors Wigan where he worked for over 40 years, before recently retiring. Paul is described as a kind, loving, caring man.

On social media, Paul's former employers Park Motors said he had suffered a heart attack at the wheel.

Their tribute to Paul said: "We are deeply saddened to learn that a member of the Park Motors family has passed. Paul, big Paul as known to many was with us from the beginning, he gave his whole working life to our business and had only recently retired after 40+ years of service. Paul had a heart attack whilst driving on the motorway yesterday.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and 2 girls who absolutely adored this kind, caring, loving man.

"If you would like to show his family how much he meant to you, our customers, any cards or gifts can be dropped into the shop and I will personally deliver them.

"RIP Big M. You will be sorely missed."

Officers are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision, or has any CCTV or dashcam footage and would ask anyone with information to contact @MerPolCC, 101 quoting reference 20000493128 or the Roads Policing Unit on 0151 777 5747.