TRIBUTES have been paid to a World War Two veteran who died following a car crash on the A683 in Melling.

The family of 94-year-old Robert Welsh said he had a 'zest for life' and 'was determined to remain active' in a statement released by Lancashire Police this week.

Mr Welsh trained as a radio officer and joined the Merchant Navy before playing an active role in the war, including the Battle of The Atlantic.

His war time recollections and memoirs have been published in 'Through Salt Sprayed Eyes'.

On leaving the Merchant Navy he attended Harper Adams Agricultural college and lectured on poultry husbandry and prior to retirement he worked for BOCM Silcock as a poultry specialist.

He was married to Margaret, who passed away in 2006, and had lived in Farleton for 47 years.

He leaves behind a daughter Fiona, a son Melville and four grandchildren, as well as younger brother Andrew.

“He was an active member of the community, being a member of the local Probus, model boat sailing club, Maritime Museum and the Barbon walkers," said his family.

“Robert will be remembered as one of the most youthful and active 94 year olds you could meet. He had a zest for life and was determined to remain active. His enthusiasm for life was infectious. He will be sadly missed.”

Mr Welsh died in Royal Preston Hospital last Tuesday (July 3) after suffering serious injuries in the crash on June 28.

He was driving a Nissan Almera which collided with two lorries.

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses following the collision, which happened at around 3.20pm.

PC Shaun Canning, of Lancashire Police, said: “These are tragic circumstances and my thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr Welsh.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed a collision between a car and two HGVs in Melling.

“We want to establish exactly what has happened and hope the public can help us.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log reference 1074 of June 28.