TRIBUTES have been paid to a Clitheroe grandad who died after being knocked down by a car.

Stuart Beal, 90, was discharged from hospital the day after the collision in Railway View Avenue, but his condition worsened over the next few days.

The crash, involving a Toyota Corolla, happened at about 11.35am on Thursday, January 2, as Mr Beal crossed Railway View Avenue from Church Walk.

The dad-of-two and grandad-of-five had been married for 61 years to his wife Pat and moved to Clitheroe a year ago to be nearer to their son and family.

He served in the Merchant navy during the Second World War, surviving a torpedo attack and navigating to safety.

After retiring in 1988, he became very involved with the Rucksack Climbing Club and the Manchester University Mountaineering Club.

He had also been involved on a voluntary basis with the Scout movement.

In a statement, his family said: “He was an avid reader with a sharp, logical mind and he had a philosophical and often humorous perspective on life.

“He had an enduring love of geology and the mountains and had been a keen climber when younger.

“His family and friends will miss him greatly.

“He was loved by all for his insight, wit, and generosity and he loved a challenging discussion.

“His family are comforted by the fact that he died peacefully in his sleep and was independent and in good form to the end.”

Police said the car was driving towards the town centre and Mr Beal cut his head after being knocked to the ground.

He was taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital where his injuries were initially believed to be minor, but was kept in overnight and discharged on Friday, officers said.

However, his condition worsened and he was pronounced dead at home at 3.30am.