Driver named
Fatal crash on motorway

AN 84-year-old man has died after his car was hit by a lorry on the M42.

Police were called to the scene at 4.30am on Tuesday (March 6) after a lorry and Chevrolet Matiz were involved in a crash on the northbound carriageway between junctions five and six.

The driver of the car, Gilbert Holmes, from Wakefield, was taken to hospital but died a short time later.

The 39-year-old lorry driver, from Stoke-on-Trent, was treated for shock at hospital and was later discharged. He was spoken to by officers but not arrested.

Mr Holmes, a widower, leaves a son, David, daughter-in-law, Denise, granddaughter, Stephanie, and a younger brother, Gordon.

In a tribute to his father David said: "We are all devastated. He was a good friend throughout my life. He was very active and he will be very much missed by us all."

The northbound carriageway remained closed until 9.45am while specialist officers carried out accident investigation work.

Inspector Mark Watkins, from West Midlands Police Collision Investigation Unit, said: "There will have been a number of other drivers on the motorway on both the northbound and southbound carriageways.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the silver Chevrolet in the seconds and minutes before the collision."

Anyone who thinks they may be able to assist with the inquiry can call West Midlands Police on 101.

A lorry and car were involved in a crash on the M42.

Officers carry out investigative work at the scene of the crash.

Gilbert Holmes was killed when his car was hit by a lorry. (s)

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