Family tribute to OAP killed in hit-and-run
THE family of a pensioner killed in a hitand-run have paid tribute to him – and have pleaded for the driver to come forward.
Brian Croxon, 77, died after being struck by a car outside Royton Brass Band Club on Sandy Lane, Royton, at around 11pm on Thursday. He was taken to hospital but died from his injuries.
The driver didn’t stop and fled the scene.
Officers have launched an investigation and are appealing for the driver to come forward.
In a statement, Mr Croxon’s family said: “Brian was well known and well liked in the community having lived in Royton all his live.
“His life revolved around the Royton Brass Band Club. He was the president of the club for over 10 years and only gave up the presidency a couple of years ago.
“He would go there whenever he could and his main company these days were the staff and customers there. He knew everybody in there and everybody knew him.
“He was very chatty with them all and was wellliked there. He had his routines and would go into Royton to do his banking and shopping every Friday morning seeing people that he knew while he was there. He was also a generous man and would help anybody out if they had money troubles.
“We are absolutely devastated by what has happened to Brian and can’t believe that the driver didn’t stop.
“We would appeal to anybody who knows anything at all to contact the police to help them find the person responsible.”
Sgt Lee Westhead, from GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “I would like to speak to anyone who was on Sandy Lane around 11pm on Thursday or anyone who knows other people who would have been in the area at that time.
“If you become aware of a neighbour’s vehicle, or someone else’s, suddenly showing recent damage then please get in touch.
“Similarly, if anyone is approached to carry out work on a vehicle that looks like it might have been involved in this incident, please contact us.
“Finally, I would appeal directly to the driver of the vehicle involved to please get in touch with us.”
Contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.