The family of a HGV driver who died when his wagon overturned on the East Lancs Road recently have paid tribute to him. Thomas John Bate, aged 35, from Kirkby, was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision – the east-bound slip road leading onto the M57 motorway.

His partner, Melanie Wilson, aged 41, from Kirkby said on behalf of his family: “Thomas always had a smile upon his face. He loved life and lived it to the full. “He loved going on holiday, playing football and watching his beloved Liverpool FC with his friends. “He was the life and soul of any event and would make everybody laugh with his witty charm and cheeky smile. “Thomas was only 35-years-old and had not had an easy time.

He lost his only son, Shaun, in 2003 when he was only six-years-old to a brain tumour. And only six months ago he buried his only daughter, Rebecca, who died of cancer aged 17. “I feel sorry for the people that never had the chance to meet Thomas as they are the ones that have missed out. His smile made a lasting impression on everyone he met. “Thomas has a wide circle of friends all over the country and he will be missed dearly by all of his family and friends but most of by me and his two step-children Lauren, aged 17 and Lewis, aged 21. “I will always miss him and he will always be in my heart. He was my rock and my soul-mate. “The only comfort we get is that Thomas is now with his children.

Their daddy is now home”. Officers from the force’s roads policing unit are still investigating the cause of the collision. No other vehicle was involved and investigators remain keen to hear from anyone who was in the area around the junction of the East Lancs and the M57 at around 6am on January 28 to call them on 0151 777 5444.