THE family of a man killed when his car overturned have said he was someone that made them proud.

Steven Nicholson, from Shotton Colliery, County Durham died after his Vauxhall Vectra crashed on the A1018 near Seaham last Friday (May 8).

The accident happened on the A1018 at about 8.30pm on Friday, May 8 on the A19 entry slip road near Seaham.

Mr Nicholson suffered a serious internal injury as a result of the collision and was transported to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Newcastle where he died.

“Steven was a much-loved son. Losing him in such sudden and tragic circumstances has been devastating," said his family in a statement.

“We will forever remember him as a polite and well-mannered young man that made us proud.

“There is a massive hole in our lives that cannot be filled. We will miss Steven always.”

Two passengers in the car, both 24-year-old men from Shotton Colliery, were transported to Sunderland Royal Hospital with injuries which were not believed to be serious.

Sergeant Jonathan Morgan said at the time: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with Steven’s family and friends at this sad time.

“We would like to speak to anyone who saw Steven’s Vauxhall Vectra car at any point prior to the collision on Friday evening to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the collision investigation unit on 101.