Mum’s tribute to ‘hard-working’ footballer who died aged 26 after crash near Leicestershire town

A mum has paid a heartfelt tribute to her "funny" and "hard-working" 26-year-old son who died following a collision near a Leicestershire town last week.

Young footballer Paul Criglington died after his green Ford Fiesta collided with a white HGV near Shepshed[1].

Leicestershire Police[2] said it received a call at around 1.10am on Wednesday morning (June 10), regarding the collision on the A512 Ashby Road West.

Officers said the driver of the Fiesta, a man in his 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene[3] and that the HGV driver was not injured.

Tributes have been pouring in for the young Spurs fan throughout the past week, who would have been 27 next month.

His mother, Sonja Moss, said: "Paul was a well-loved person. He would do anything for anybody, if he knew the person or not.

Paul was a member of Whitwick Athletic Football Club(Image: Dale Wight)

"Paul was funny and loved a laugh on his expense or others. He would play jokes on his colleagues at work.

"He loved football and was a Tottenham supporter through and through.

Paul was genuine and hard-working.

"He loved to travel and walk in the Lake District or anywhere in nature, as he liked animals.

"Paul will be greatly missed by his two sisters, his brother, his girlfriend Fay and his friends, as well as his mum and dad."

Whitwick Athletic Football Club, where Paul used to play, also paid tribute following his death.

A club spokesperson said: "It is with great sadness that we share the heart-breaking news of the passing of our teammate and friend, Paul, following a car accident earlier this week.

"Paul was more than just a player for our club.

He was a valued teammate, a great friend, and someone who brought positivity and smile wherever he went.

"His presence on and off the pitch will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Paul's family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

"Rest easy Paul.

You will always be part of our club, and you will never be forgotten."

References

1. ^ near Shepshed (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
2. ^ Leicestershire Police (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
3. ^ was pronounced dead at the scene (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)