TRIBUTES have been paid to the Worcester man who died in the Eckington Bridge crash on Friday.
Harry Smith, 33, died following the two-car which happened around 4am.
In statements, his family described him as ‘a devoted dad, son, nephew, brother and boyfriend’.
Harry was a devoted dad to four boys and two girls. He was a son, nephew, brother and boyfriend.
Harry’s mum Shirley and her partner Gerry said: “Harry was the light of the party and would do anything for anybody,” said Harry’s mum Shirley and her partner Gerry.
“We would like to thank everyone paying their respects at this sad time. Harry will have a send-off fit for a king.
“I miss you so much my boy, love you loads, my heart is broken.”
Details for the funeral will be shared in due course.
Harry’s father, Harry Smith Senior, added: “I’m a father with six boys, I love them all the same and I will continue to treat them all the same. My angel boy, I will treasure the memories we made. I will love you forever.”
Harry’s girlfriend, Sophie, said: “I’m so sorry Harry, I wish I was there to help you – you were a brilliant dad to our two girls Talulaa and Valencia, you adored them.
“I will never stop loving you Harry – I will miss you so much. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you soon.”
Harry’s brothers added: “He was a role model and we can’t believe it’s happened.
“Our hearts are broken and our minds are blank.
“We wish we were there to help you.
“We will never have another chance to make new memories.
“We never got the chance to say goodbye but until we see you on the other side, it’s gone but never forgotten and we will love you always.”
Harry’s uncles Lenny, Cojack, Eddie and Gags said: “He was not just our nephew but our brother.”
The family have asked everyone to avoid speculation on social media and respect their privacy at this very difficult time.
Enquiries are ongoing into the collision where a silver BMW and a red Vauxhall Astra collided on the bridge and the BMW fell into the River Avon.
Officers attended alongside West Midlands Ambulance Service and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue.
Harry was recovered from the water but sadly died at the scene.
Specially-trained officers are offering his family their full support.
Another man, a 38-year-old from Worcester, climbed out of the water and was subsequently arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drug driving. He has now been released under investigation.
He and another man, who was travelling in the Astra, suffered minor injuries.
Investigations are continuing to establish who was driving the BMW.
The bridge has now reopened with a temporary weight and speed limit in place.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or captured it on dash cam should call 101.
