Last updated at 16:04, Wednesday, 27 February 2013

THE family of a man who died in a road traffic collision on the M6 this week have paid tribute to a proud dad who "had a smile for everyone and lived life to the full".

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Alan Walmsley, better known as "Jossy", was 62 and lived at Mardale Road, Longridge in Preston.

He was driving a SPAR lorry on Monday morning when, at around 8.15am, he was involved in an eight-vehicle collision on the M6 between J35 and J36.

A spokesperson said on behalf of Mr Walmsley’s family: “Alan (Jossy) Walmsley was a devoted husband to his wife Jacqs for 43 years.

"He was her soul mate, best friend, her rock and much more. He will be sorely missed by her and all the family.

“Alan was a proud dad and granddad. He leaves two sons, Jay and Ian, his daughter Donna, daughter-in-law Pam, and four grandchildren.

“Alan lived in the Preston area all of his life and moved to Longridge 30 years ago. Throughout this time he did various fundraising events for the locals. The 'Ollie and Jade' fund was one of the main charities he supported with his fundraising.

"He also used to play football for Ribchester club, and after he sustained an injury he turned to managing local teams. He was also secretary of Longridge United - now known as AFC Longridge. He will be a big loss throughout the community we are sure.

“Alan lived life to the full. He had a smile for everyone and always tried to help people even if that meant he went without.

"He always saw the best in everyone. He loved his job, had worked for local companies all his life and when he wasn’t working weekends and busy with football, he could be found on his allotment with his various stock chickens and goats.

“He was a great role model for his grandson, Nathan, who went up every weekend to help with the animals. So much so, that Nathan is now pursuing this as a career.

“He had various other hobbies. Fishing was one where twice yearly he would travel to Scotland with friends to enjoy this pastime.

“Alan was part of a large, close family and he leaves behind his dad, three brothers and one sister.”

First published at 15:37, Wednesday, 27 February 2013
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk