TRIBUTES have been paid to the young driver of a car who died after a head-on collision in Charnock Richard.

Nicholas Eastham, 26, of Meadow Way, Coppull, was killed when his Vauxhall Astra collided with another vehicle on the A49 Preston Road close to the junction with Chorley Lane.

Mr Eastham was cut free from his car and taken to the Royal Preston Hospital shortly after the incident at 6.30am on July 30, but died soon after.

The other driver, June Baybutt, 68, of Stocks Lane, Eccleston, was also trapped in her silver Toyota Celica and suffered a broken leg.

Neighbour Stanley Ainscough said Mr Eastham was a terrific lad. "It's terrible," he said. "He was such a nice boy and we were incredibly sorry to hear about his death."

Another neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said: "Nicholas always seemed to be smiling.

"I've known him for a few years and he was such a polite, kind, young gentleman. We will miss him."

Emergency crews closed the road in both directions for nearly five hours to clear oil and fuel from the road.

Accident investigators are compiling a report to establish how the crash happened.

Witnesses should call senior investigating officer Sergeant Steve Moon direct on 01257-246281.