The family of a ‘much-loved’ dad and grandad have paid tribute to him after he died in a crash on a County Durham road.

Emergency crews rushed to the B6286 near Hunwick, Bishop Auckland at about 8.10am on Monday (September 9) to reports of a car crashing into bushes.

Paramedics attempted to save the driver, but despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

He has since been named by police as 50-year-old Marc Thomas.

His heartbroken family said in a statement: “It is with deepest regret that we announce the death of our Marc Brian Thomas, 50 years, who was involved in a tragic road traffic collision on the morning of Monday, September 9.

“He was a much-loved husband, father, son, brother and grandad and will be sadly missed.


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“We wish to thank everyone for their support and ask to be left so that we can grieve in peace as a family.”

The road was closed for several hours and reopened on Monday afternoon.