TRIBUTES have been paid to a 33-year-old 'with a heart of gold' who died after a car crash.

Luke Fisher was driving a silver Ford Focus towards Barnoldswick on the A56 at Thornton-in-Craven when he left the road and crashed into a tree near to the junction with Brearlands at 1.15am on Saturday.

Mr Fisher, originally from Darwen, suffered critical injuries and was taken to Leeds General Infirmary, but died three days later.

Affectionately known to his friends as ‘Fish’, he was popular at the White Bear Inn in Barrowford where he worked behind the bar.

Karl Metcalfe, one of the managers from the White Bear, said: “He had a heart of gold.

“He was much-loved and he made time for anyone who needed him even if it was in the middle of the night.

“He was a regular here and had worked here for one and a half years. We are a very big family at the pub and he was very much part of that.”

Tributes have been posted on social media to Mr Fisher and a fundraising page was set up for the family to raise money for mental health charity Mind.

Karl added: “He was originally from Darwen and then came over to Barrowford a few years ago.

“He was such a lovely guy and would get along with anybody.

“He had a great sense of humour and will be terribly missed by everyone who knew him.

“The news has been affecting people locally and it will not be same without him.

“He had worked behind the bar and wanted to run his own pub.

"He had just got a personal licence to move over to Skipton to the Black Horse to try to progress in that field.”

One friend posted on Facebook: “Words cannot describe how much we all loved you and how much you will be missed RIP, you are so loved by so many people and touched so many people’s hearts with your kindness and goodwill to others. You’re a hero to me and you always will be.”

The road was closed in both directions for several hours to allow emergency services to attend.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “We are continuing to investigate the collision.

“Anyone who can help officers with their enquiries is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask to speak to the Major Collision Investigation Team.

“Please quote reference number 12190175187 when passing information.”