Tribute to Heywood crash victim

Heywood crash victim William Brookes.

The family of a man killed in a road traffic collision in Heywood during the early hours of Saturday morning (31 Saturday) have paid tribute to him.

William Brookes, 29, from Middleton, was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision on Whittle Lane at about 5.15am.

Mr Brooke's parents, Les and Linda, said: "Our son was affectionately known as Billy.

"He came from a large family with three brothers; Adam, Andrew and John, and two sisters; Janet and Lisa.

"Billy had two sons, Matthew and Elliot.

"He was an energetic man who was a fanatical Liverpool supporter. He enjoyed watching and playing football.

"He kept himself fit by going to the gym and had just completed a lifeguard course, which he hoped would lead to employment in sports and leisure.

"Billy was the life and soul of the party and always lit up the room.

"He had lived most of his life in the Middleton area and attended Middleton Technology School.

"Billy will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends."

Mr Brookes was killed when the Fiat Toledo he was in crashed into a wall outside a house. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 29-year-old driver was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving with excess alcohol and has been bailed until 22 March pending further inquiries.

Two men, aged 19 and 28, who were also in the car, were taken to hospital for treatment to injuries, which are not thought to be life threatening.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Road Policing Unit on 0161 856 8473.