THE wife of a pensioner from Nelson who died after being taken ill at the wheel of his car in Accrington has paid tribute to her husband.

Mr Lockwood’s wife, Sandra Lockwood said: “On 29th April, suddenly, Michael Lockwood sadly passed away. 

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"He leaves behind a wife, two sons Neal and Gareth, two daughters Sandra and Wendy, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

"He was much loved and a great guy and will be sadly missed.”

Officers on patrol found Michael Lockwood’s red Ford Ranger parked across the pavement in Cannon Street at around 10.05pm on Friday.

They found the 72-year-old collapsed in the car. Paramedics were called but Mr Lockwood was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police believe the car, which had turned off Eagle Street, hit three metal signposts before veering across the road on to the opposite side, hitting a wall and a parked white Volkswagen Up.

Police described the incident as ‘tragic’ and appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Road Policing Sgt Tracey Ward said: “This is a tragic incident where a man has sadly died after what we suspect was a medical episode at the wheel.

“Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad and difficult time.

“We are still investigating this collision and I ask anyone who might have seen anything to get in touch.”

Mr Lockwood’s family have been informed and a file has been prepared for the coroner, police said.

A police spokesman said: “Patrols have come across a vehicle which appeared to be in an unusual position, parked on the pavement and against a wall. “When officers approached the vehicle they discovered that the male driver was deceased.

“A full collision investigation has been undertaken and enquiries in to what caused the man’s death are underway.”

Community leaders said they were shocked to hear about the incident.

Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson said: “It’s an absolute tragedy for someone to die suddenly like this.

“My thoughts are with his family and his loved ones at what must be an incredibly difficult time.”

Marsden ward councillor Tommy Cooney said: “My thoughts are with Mr Lockwood’s family at what must be an incredibly difficult time.

“Losing a family member is always difficult but especially when it is so sudden and unexpected. It’s very sad.”

Fellow ward councillor Brian Parker: “It’s bad news to hear somebody has died.

“Fortunately nobody else was injured.

“I don’t see 72 as being old these days so for somebody to die at a premature age is very unfortunate.”

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101, quoting incident reference 1501 0f April 29th.