The family of a man who died after a collision involving a HGV and a car on the M6 have paid tribute to him.

Cliff Tamou, 58, from Wigan, who was out of his HGV as it had broken down, died at the scene. 

Staffordshire Police were called at 9.55pm on Thursday 27 February to reports of a collision involving a Toyota Avensis and a white MAN Truck HGV on the M6 junctions 15 and 16 southbound.

Cliff's family said: "Cliff Tamou, 58, who moved to the UK over 30 years ago from New Zealand and settled in the Wigan area, was a devoted husband, father to six children and five grandchildren. 

"He was a lorry driver for many years and loved playing, refereeing and coaching rugby." 

"The family have asked for their privacy to be respected in this very sad time." 

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police said: "His family continue to be supported by specially-trained officers at this difficult time.

"The driver of the Toyota, a 22-year-old man from Dudley, was taken to hospital with leg and facial injuries. 

"His injuries are not believed to be life changing or life threatening. 

"He has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving."

Staffordshire Police is keen to speak to anyone with any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area or those with any information which could help collision investigators.

Call them on 101, quoting incident 783 of 27 February, or message us using Live Chat on their website.

Alternatively, contact collision investigators directly by emailing [email protected].

--------------

READ MORE: North Staffordshire football club planning to replace 30-year-old floodlights

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Stoke Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our city.

Subscribe to our FREE weekly newsletter email HERE - just click the 'SIGN UP' button.

Please consider following Stoke Nub News on Facebook or Twitter.