Tribute to ‘kind and lovely’ villager killed in crash near Bristol Airport

A tribute has been paid to a ‘polite and lovely’ man who died in a crash involving two vehicles near Bristol Airport. The incident happened on West Lane in Felton, close to the George and Dragon pub, yesterday morning at 8.30am (January 17).

The man, in his 70s, who has been named locally as Mike Griffiths, died at the scene of the crash. A woman was also taken to hospital with potential life-changing injuries, and remains there receiving treatment today.

The tragedy has rocked the local village community of Winford, where Mr Griffiths is said to have lived for many years. He used to go to the tea room at the George and Dragon in pub, and supported Winford Community Shop by calling in every day.

Denise Poole, who helped set up the shop and now volunteers, said: “Everybody is gob-smacked about what happened - no-one can believe it. He was just such a pleasant person who everyone in the village knew.”

She added: “He was a very kind gentleman who was polite and lovely and had a huge smile. He made sure that he really supported the shop by coming in here regularly. He’ll be badly missed.”

Avon and Somerset Police say the man’s family are being currently being supported by trained officers. The road was closed for much of yesterday as officers investigatedwhat had happened.

They have now turned to the public for help.

A statement said: “We are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage following a fatal collision in Bristol yesterday. Officers were called to West Lane, in Felton, at around 8.30am yesterday (Tuesday 17 December) following a collision involving two vehicles.

“Sadly, a man in his 70s has died at the scene. Our thoughts are with the family at this time and they are being supported by specially trained officers. A woman was taken to hospital with potential life-changing injuries and remains in hospital receiving treatment.

“If you were in the area and have yet to speak to police, or have relevant footage, please contact 101 and quote reference number 5223012392.”