Hit-run horror

BRIAN CROXON

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A DEVASTATED family have paid tribute to the victim of a hit and run in Royton.

Brian Croxon (77) died in hospital after being struck by a vehicle in Sandy Lane.

The well-liked and generous man was found by a passer-by outside Royton Brass Band Club with serious injuries following the incident on Thursday.

Family members have urged anyone with information to come forward.

An investigation has been launched by the police who believe the driver failed to stop. Paying tribute to him, his family said: "Brian was well known and well liked in the community, having lived in Royton all his life.

"His life revolved around Royton Brass Band Club.

"He would go there whenever he could and his main company were the staff and customers there.

"He was also a generous man and would help anybody out if they had money troubles, just saying pay me back when you can.

"We are absolutely devastated by what has happened to Brian and can't believe that the driver didn't stop.

"We would appeal to anybody who knows anything at all to contact the police to help them find the person responsible."

Flowers

Several bouquets of flowers have been laid at the junction with Park Lane alongside handwritten notes.

Among the messages were "Night night Mr" and "Rest in peace", with several friends also writing loving tributes on social media. Hayley Kilgannon said: "Rest in peace Brian ­- you always helped me in the Band Club every Tuesday with the delivery, then we would have a brew and a cigarette and put the world to rights. You will always be remembered."

Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon said on Twitter: "Sorry to hear of fatal accident in Royton. My sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Mr Croxon frequented the band club in Sandy Lane every night, taking up the same seat in the venue on each visit.

Members of the club are set to purchase a commemorative plaque in his regular spot.

Club steward Leanne Forbes said: "He was always here. This was Brian's club.

"He did everything ­- all military style ­- he did the garden, he was the caretaker, he sorted the lighting.

"It just will not be right without him here.

"Everyone is deeply saddened."

Much-loved Mr Croxon stepped down as president of the club after more than a decade in the role only a couple of years ago.

Members of the club went outside to the scene as soon as they were informed and said Mr Croxon had been at the venue since 9pm that evening.

Police Sergeant Lee Westhead, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "We are currently following enquiries to establish how this man came about his injuries.

"I would like to speak to anyone who was on Sandy Lane around 11pm on Thursday night or anyone who knows other people who would have been in the area at that time.

"If you become aware of a neighbours' vehicle, or someone else's, suddenly showing recent damage then please get in touch.

"Finally, I would appeal directly to the driver of the vehicle involved to please get in touch with us."

Anyone with information should contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161-856 4741 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.