A family have paid a heartfelt tribute to a much-loved man who died after he was hit by a van in a North East village.

Trevor Appleton, 72, died after a collision involving a van outside of the Best One shop on Kitchener Terrace, in New Herrington, near Houghton-le-Spring at around 6.05pm on Monday, January 8.

Northumbria Police said, it was reported that a white Peugeot Partner van had been travelling on the westbound carriageway when, for reasons yet to be established, they have struck a male pedestrian on the road.

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Emergency services attended the scene and found the man had suffered life-threatening injuries. He was taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital however, despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was later pronounced as deceased.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "The man can now be named as 72-year-old Trevor Appleton of the New Herrington area. His family continue to receive support from specially-trained Family Liaison Officers at this difficult time."

Today (Friday) Trevor’s family have paid a heartfelt tribute to him which said: “Trevor was a loving brother and uncle, and he will be sorely missed by all of his family and friends.

“Trevor enjoyed meeting new people and socialising – and those who knew him admired his wicked sense of humour.

“We would like to thank those who remained at the scene to help Trevor in his final moments, as well as everyone who assisted in the emergency services.

“As a family, we would ask that we are now respectfully given the time to grieve and come to terms with what has happened.”

A full investigation into the collision was launched, with officers from the Force’s Motor Patrols team continuing to appeal for further witnesses to come forward.

The driver of the van remained at the scene and is assisting officers with their enquiries.

Sergeant Ben Rutherford, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a tragic incident where sadly Trevor has lost his life.

“Our thoughts remain with Trevor’s family and loved ones as they continue to process their grief.

“A number of enquiries have been ongoing ever since to establish exactly what has happened in the lead up to the collision.

“We’re grateful to the many people who have already come forward to assist our investigation with valuable information. However, we know the area was very busy at the time with lots of people and vehicles – so there will be some further witnesses who saw what happened and have not yet spoken to police.

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“If you feel you have information that might help, no matter how small or insignificant you think it may be, please get in touch with us.

“It could prove vital in helping us ascertain exactly what happened on the day of the collision – and ultimately get answers for Trevor’s family.”

Anyone with information, or CCTV and dashcam footage, should use the ‘Report’ page of the Northumbria Police website or call 101, quoting log number NP-20240108-0880.