Family pay tribute to crash victim

The heartbroken family of a Tipton man who was killed in a crash on the M6 near Cannock today spoke of their devastation.

Colin Downing, who was 57 and lived in Stokes Avenue, died on July 22 after a collision between a 7.5 ton box lorry and his Renault master van. The accident happened near to Hilton Services.

Today his devastated relatives told of their memories of the grandfather and said he will never be forgotten by all those who knew him.

He leaves his wife Carol, as well as three sons, Mark, Paul and Stuart, three daughter-in-laws, Jo, Sam and Stacey and five grandchildren.

Mr Downing had been a lorry driver for most of his working life. He was originally from Hill Top but moved to Tipton after marrying. He enjoyed playing snooker and bingo in his spare time.

Daughter-in-law Jo, aged 33, who is married to Colin's son Mark, aged 34, spoke on behalf of the family about their loss. She said: "He loved spending time with his family and that was the most important thing to him; what he lived for. He had been a lorry driver for a number of years and loved his job.

"It is so hard to put into words what this means for us, he was such a kind, patient and loving man. He touched the hearts of everyone he met."

She added that he enjoyed a laugh and a joke and described him as a chatty man. "What you saw was what you got with Colin and everyone loved him," she said.

"He spent lots of time with his grandchildren and liked to make up silly songs for them. He was a family man, loyal and would do anything for anyone. It is just such a great loss for everyone who knew him."

Mr Downing's funeral will be held on Friday at St John's Church in Upper Church Lane in Tipton. All friends are welcome to attend. It begins at 2pm at the church before moving to Gornal Wood Crematorium at 3.30pm.

The 55-year-old driver of the box lorry which was also involved in the crash was taken to Walsall Manor Hospital with minor injuries and he was released after treatment.

The motorway was closed between Junctions 12 at Gailey, near Wolverhampton, and 11 at Hilton Services for approximately three hours while the scene was examined and cleared.

Police are appealing to anyone who saw the collision, or the vehicles prior to the collision, to contact them on 0121 626 1285.