Grandad killed in crash 'opened his heart to many'
Family handoutA grandad killed in a crash on a busy dual carriageway was "a truly unique, kind and caring man", his family said.
Michael Casey died when the van he was driving crashed with a HGV on the A690 near Brancepeth, in County Durham on Tuesday.
Emergency services were called at about 11:15 BST but the 58-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, while the HGV driver was taken to hospital and later released, police said.
Mr Casey's family, who are being supported by specialist officers, said he "opened his heart and home to many".
The grandad, from Crook, County Durham, would be "profoundly missed" by everyone, they said in a statement.
"His quirky humour brought smiles to countless faces," they said.
'Countless positive impacts'
They added he was "always happy to help people whether it was giving lifts, fixing cars, or making a Sunday roast dinner for friends over the years".
"His mam Jenny will miss Michael dearly. Every Sunday, he took her for lunch after the passing of her husband and he was always there.
"His sisters Sharon and Dawn said he unintentionally created a place where men in his community could meet, chat, have a coffee and fix their cars, with the garage he had built at the side of the house."
His family said he would be "remembered not only for his kindness and passion for cars but his love for his family and friends, his love of food and the countless positive impacts he had on so many lives".
The road was closed in both directions for several hours to allow collision investigators to examine the scene.
Durham Police urged anyone who might have witnessed the crash to get in touch with the force.