TRIBUTES have been paid to a father-of-one after he was killed in a horror road smash in the early hours.

Christopher James, 29, lost his life after a Citroen C2 crashed into a stone wall, at the junction of Haslingden Road and Union Road, in Rawtenstall, at around 3am today.

His heartbroken family has described him as a "lovable rogue with a cheeky smile" who will be missed by everyone who knew him - and especially his five-year-old son Logan.

Police say a second man in the car, aged 26, suffered wrist and back injuries, which are not thought to be life-threatening.

The road, one of the main links between Rawtenstall and Haslingden, remained closed for some time while police investigated the immediate aftermath.

In a statement, his family said: "Christopher was a much-loved husband, father, son, brother and grandson.

"He was a lovable rogue with a cheeky smile and a mischievous sense of humour.

"He would do anything for his wide circle of friends and family, especially his five year old son, Logan, to who he was entirely devoted.

"He was passionate about sports cars and he was a regular visitor to cruise events at Trafford Park and the Drag Strip at Santa Pod.

"Most of all, he was a light in our lives and he will be very sorely missed."

Meanwhile residents living close to the scene of the crash have spoken of their shock.

Howard Rushton, who lives off Haslingden Road, said: “It woke me up at 3am this morning.

“There were a lot of alarms and sirens going off at the top of the road and then we saw the police cars blocking off the road. We did not know what was going on.

“It is terrible to hear about someone dying in the community.

“You have to think about the poor man’s family and friends at this time.”

Police have also appealed for witnesses to the collision.

Sgt Oliver Jones added: “This is an incredibly sad incident and my thoughts are with Christopher's family, who are being supported by our officers.

“If you saw a Citroen C2 being driven along Haslingden Road around that time or you have any information you think can help, please get in touch.

"I am particularly asking people to come forward with any dash cam or CCTV footage.

Any witnesses are being asked to call police on the non-emergency number, 101, quoting log number 193 of October 21.