STOKE FAN LORD EFF WAS ‘TRUE LEGEND’

Tributes paid to van driver killed in crash on the M1

TRIBUTES have been paid to a Stoke City fan who died in a crash on the motorway.

Martin Davies – known to many as Gerb or Lord Eff – was described as a ‘larger than life character’ and a ‘legend’ following his sudden death.

The 52-year-old, from Blythe Bridge, had been driving a van on the M1 near Milton Keynes when he was involved in a collision between junction 14 and 15.

Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, he was confirmed dead at the scene on March 20.

Now a Justgiving page has been set up in Martin’s memory with nearly £3,000 pledged so far.

Proceeds will help meet the cost of the funeral, as well as going to the air ambulance.

On the page, Leona Leming said: “Gerb, the legend, the myth, the man. A pleasure to work with, always willing to help with a sense of humour that left you laughing or cringing. Rest in Peace Gerb, taken too soon.”

Stokie-joey said: “There’ll only ever be one Lord Eff. Thanks for the laughs mate.” Adam S added: “Rest in peace Gerb (Lord Eff ). You were always good to see, at work or the footy, never short of something to moan or chuckle about whether ‘that Stoke’ or ‘that cricket’! Take it easy mate.”

And Dave Mong wrote: “Absolute great bloke. Been a good friend for 30 years. Always made me laugh and everyone else to be fair. A true legend in our family.”

Milton Keynes Coroner’s Court confirmed they had been notified of Martin’s death.

He was driving a Volkswagen Crafter flatbed van when it collided with a a Volvo lorry with a blue side curtain shortly before 10am on Saturday, March 20.

A blue Vauxhall Astra which was broken down on the carriageway at the time of the incident was not struck.

Police are continuing to investigate the crash and have appealed to motorists for dashcam footage from the time.