THE WIFE of an Evesham man who died in a crash in Pershore has paid tribute to him, calling him a ‘strong, reliable and lovable man who was the life and soul of the family’.
Andy Hirons, who was 52, died after he was struck by a BMW car while riding his motorbike on the A4538 Pershore Lane on August 15, 2024.
The driver of the car, Joshua Smith, 31, was given a six-year sentence at Worcester Crown Court today (Thursday, January 15).
Following the sentencing, Andy’s wife Tracey said: “Andy was a keen motorcyclist and for his 50th birthday he bought himself a motorbike and he would go to a meet once a week, especially in the summer where he made many friends – sadly these included the person who was seriously hurt in the same collision he was killed in.
“Andy was my whole life and father to our three children, who are all adults now, including our eldest daughter who has Down Syndrome, so the impact of his life being taken away so cruelly and suddenly has been particularly upsetting for her.
“This man’s criminal actions have taken away the best days of our lives.
“We were married for 30 years and friends for even longer, so I have only spent 10 years of my life without Andy being in it.
“I now feel empty – like there is a hole in my life that can never be filled. Our children are all devastated too – my eldest daughter lives in constant fear I won’t return home if I ever go out without her.
“It is hard knowing Andy will no longer be at my side, I have lost all confidence and don’t want to go anywhere or do anything. I wouldn’t wish how I feel on my worst enemy.
“Andy was the life and soul of a family get together and the sort of person you always wanted in your corner, to have your back. His loyalty and dedication were second to none.
“He was a strong, reliable, dependable and lovable man with a heart of gold. His mind was like the font of all knowledge, and his passing has left a huge void in our lives.
“I now must look after our daughter on my own as even though I was her sole carer before, I no longer have Andy to support me. He provided for the family and now he is gone so it is a struggle without him.
“Andy had such a good life and had so much more living to do. He has missed his son’s wedding and the birth of his fourth grandchild.”
Andy was a retained firefighter for eight years – he devoted so much of his life to his family and the community.
“Andy would always help people in their darkest times,” added Tracey.
