Tributes have been paid to a man in his 40s who was killed after a tree fell on his van in Longton.

Police were called to the A59 at Longton, close to the Lancashire Constabulary headquarters, at around 9am on Saturday (7 December).

They found that a tree had fallen on a man’s Citroen van on the dual carriageway. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

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He has since been named locally as local football coach Paul Fiddler. He was the first team assistant manager at Lytham Town FC.

A spokesperson for Lytham Town FC said: “Today, we would like to take the time to remember a Lytham Town FC legend Paul Fiddler.

“A well-loved coach, football player, gaffer but most of all a true friend.

“Paul, thank you for everything mate. Our thoughts are with the Lytham Town lads, his friends and family at this time. Rest in Peace Paul. We will miss you.”

Family members also posted their own tributes with one referring to Paul at ‘the best uncle’.

In memory of Paul the flag in the centre of Freckleton, close to the Fred Hughes TV shop which Paul and family ran, is being flown at half-mast.

Detective Sgt Matt Davidson, of Lancashire Constabulary’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Very sadly this incident has resulted in the death of a man and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.”

“An investigation is ongoing, and I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened or has any dashcam or mobile phone footage to please get in touch.”

Anyone with any information should call police on 101 quoting log 0368 of December 7th or you can email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at SCIU@lancashire.police.uk

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