TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular “character” who died in a crash earlier this week.

Police are still investigating the death of Frederick Collins, 75, of Kersey Avenue in Great Cornard, who died in a collision with a lorry at a pedestrian crossing in Sudbury town centre on Tuesday.

He was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident in Market Hill just after 1.30pm.

Heart-rending floral tributes have been placed at the side of St Peter’s Church, close to where the incident happened.

One read: “You’ll always be in our hearts, dad. You’re the best dad. Mark, Gill, Connor, Aaron, Callum, Tyler.”

Another said: “You will always be dearly missed. Will be thinking of you every day. Lots of love. Tracie, Rick, Dani and Shane.”

His grieving family were too upset to speak when visited by the EADT.

Close friend Peter Moaks, who used to meet up with Mr Collins in the Silkworm pub, in the town centre, said he was a “character” who was well known by many people in Sudbury.

“He was a good guy and was a right character and will be missed by everyone. We used to meet up every Saturday and have a bet at the bookies.

“I am going to miss him … you couldn’t help but love him, really,” said the 73-year-old, who lives in Gestingthorpe.

At the time of the accident, emergency crews arrived within minutes, quickly set up a cordon around the scene and closed roads in the area.

Market Hill was closed to traffic while a collision investigation team examined the scene.

Shops along Market Hill were closed and staff sent home.

The lorry involved is owned by Braintree-based haulage contractors Coopers Transport.

Any witnesses to the collision should call Suffolk police’s serious collision investigation team on 01473 613500.