THE family of the horse and trap driver killed in a collision on a busy North-East road have spoken of their grief.

Wayne Walker, 33, of Springwell Village, Washington, Wearside, was driving his horse and trap south along Washington Highway on Sunday lunchtime, when it was involved in a collision with a Honda Accord car carrying four people.

A member of his family, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "We are all devastated at Wayne's death. The horses were his life. He was out on the pony and trap every day."

Mr Walker suffered head injuries in the collision. He was taken to hospital, but doctors were unable to save him. His horse had to be put down at the scene.

Police were last night still searching for the driver of the car.

Sergeant Phil King, of North-umbria Police, said: "There were four occupants. Three appear to have scrambled out as the car crashed.

"A female was detained at the scene. A further two have been apprehended since and taken to Washington police station for questioning. They have been spoken to and bailed, pending further inquiries."

Sgt King urged the driver to come forward. "We would urge this person to come forward and contact the police with a view to putting a swift end to the matter," he said.

"This is especially crucial given the nature of the anguish which is currently being endured by the family of Mr Walker."

Officers closed the dual carriageway for four-and-a-half hours following the incident, which happened at about 12.45pm.

Mr Walker was a married man and the couple had a two-year-old son, Nathan.

They had only moved into their home in Highworth Drive shortly before Christmas.

Mr Walker's parents own a riding stable in Eighton Banks, Gateshead, and other relatives live on the outskirts of Springwell and run a roofing business.

Police said a number of witnesses had already come forward, but they appealed for more information about the incident.

They are keen to trace the occupants of a silver car that passed the horse and trap just minutes before the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the motor patrols division, on 0191-454 7555, extension 66391.