THE family of a man who died following a road crash in Braintree today paid tribute to him as police renewed their appeal for witnesses.

The collision happened shortly after 11am on Wednesday (April 18) when the driver of a blue Peugeot Expert appears to have lost control of the panel van and struck a lamp post on Coldnailhurst Avenue.

The driver, 61-year-old Graham Haygreen from Halstead, was certified dead at the scene.

In a statement provided to police, Graham’s wife Sylvie Haygreen, said: “Graham was a dearly-loved husband, father, son, brother-in-law and friend to everyone that knew him.

“He worked as an electrician which he had done all his working life. When Graham was not working he enjoyed relaxing with his family.

“We will greatly miss Graham very much. We now ask to be left alone and allowed to grieve at this very difficult time.”

At this stage, it is believed that Graham Haygreen fell ill while driving.

A post-mortem examination will take place on Monday before a decision is taken as to whether an inquest will be held.

Any witnesses to the crash are urged to contact Essex Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 or via email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.