The family of a “kind-hearted” grandad who died in a crash on the A1(M) near Darlington on the way back from a family trip have paid tribute to him.
Emergency services blue-lighted to the southbound side of the major road on Friday (September 4) after three vehicles collided just before midday.
The road was closed for several hours following the incident, which took place between Junction 57 and the Burtree Interchange at Junction 58.
Tragically, the driver of a Vauxhall Mokka that was involved in the crash died at the scene - and he has today been named as William Campbell, also known as Billy.
Billy, who has been described as a “giant Scottish teddy bear”, was driving back from a family trip in Scotland with his wife and granddaughter in the car when the tragic incident took place.
They were taken to the Darlington Memorial Hospital as a precaution and have since been discharged.
In a heartbreaking tribute to the 65-year-old, his family said: “William (Billy) Campbell was a gentle, loving, kind-hearted man from Scotland who had lived in Yorkshire with his wife but always loved his beautiful homeland.
“He was a giant Scottish teddy bear who would give you his last pound if you needed it.
“His wife has received hundreds of messages in a giant wave of grief as big as his heart was.
“He loved life, his family, his friends and was a true gentleman.
“When he loved you, it was with such immense strength he wrapped you up in it.
“We’ll carry those memories of laughter, love and kindness that he wrapped around me in his big Billy hugs in my heart forever.
“He has left a big hole in the lives of everyone who knew him.
“His final thought was that of the safety of his granddaughter and he will always be loved and missed by all that knew him.”
Durham Police said his family are being supported by specially trained officers.
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Police, firefighters, ambulances and an air ambulance were among the large-scale response following the incident, which saw the road closed for several hours.
Officers are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have dashcam footage of the vehicle prior to the collision.
Anyone who can help is asked to contact Durham Constabulary’s Serious Collisions Investigation Unit on 0191 375 2996 or by email at SCIU@durham.police.uk quoting incident number 154 of September 4.
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