THE widow of a father-of-three who died in a fatal car crash has paid tribute to her “fun-loving” husband.

Tony Stokoe, 50, from Wheatley Hill, east Durham, died at the scene after a BMW 320 was in collision with his Seat Ibiza just before midday on Saturday.

Two men were arrested following the smash on Salters Lane in Shotton Colliery, County Durham.

Marie Stokoe, 48, said her husband lived for his family and worked hard to provide for them.

She added: “Tony was a loving husband, dad to Danielle, 25, Abbie, 17, and Adam, 23, grandad to seven-week-old Gracie-Mae, uncle, brother and son.

“Tony lived life to the full and as a keen biker he loved riding his motorcycles to favourite spots in Whitby and Scarborough, as well as listening to rock music while working on his bikes and cars in his garage.

“He was full of fun and a real practical joker who always had the last laugh.

“We had recently become grandparents for the first time and Tony loved spending time with Gracie-Mae and was excited about what the future might hold for her.”

Ryan Gilling, 26, of Hutton Henry, near Hartlepool, appeared before Peterlee Magistrates Court on Monday morning charged with causing death by dangerous driving.

He was remanded in custody to appear before Durham Crown Court on December 5.

Two other men, aged 33 and 28, both from Shotton Colliery, who were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender have been bailed pending further enquiries.

An inquest is to be opened and adjourned this morning.