The family of a man who died following a collision in Annitsford last month has paid tribute to him.

The man, who has been described as a ‘kind-hearted’ grandfather, has now been named by Northumbria Police as 50-year-old Simon Cox.

At 9.25pm on Saturday, May 9, the force was informed of a collision on Front Street.

It was reported that a red Kia Niro had been travelling northbound when the driver suffered a suspected medical episode, causing the car to collide with two parked vehicles that were on the side of the road. The collision caused the Kia to overturn.

Emergency services attended the scene and the driver of the Kia, Mr Cox, was taken to hospital for treatment having sustained serious injuries. He sadly died a short time later.

Northumbria Police has also released a statement from the family of the man who worked in healthcare as a commissioning manager, which said: “Simon was a dedicated Jehovah’s Witness. He was devoted to looking after his elderly mother Judith after his dad Jim, who he was extremely close to, passed away.

“Simon was an avid Newcastle United supporter and was black and white all the way, especially after his cousin Gavin Peacock played for the club in the 1990s. He had a season ticket and rarely missed a game.

“He enjoyed visits to Keswick in the Lake District. One of his favourite places was the Dog and Gun and he loved a pint of Old Peculiar in happier days with his dad.

“Simon was kind-hearted, his sense of humour meant that he befriended people of all ages and he used to love spending time with his friends and grandchildren who are aged three, five and seven.

“They had so many adventures together, they will dearly miss their best friend.

“He was always there for friends when times got tough. He was dearly loved by so many people and will be sadly missed.”

Police officers have launched a full investigation into the incident and continue to appeal for any witnesses to the collision to come forward.

Sergeant Craig Bartle, of the force’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “The thoughts of everyone within Northumbria Police remain firmly with Simon’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.

“We have carried out a variety of enquiries since the collision took place on the evening of May 9 and would reiterate that we would like to hear from anybody with information who has not yet contacted us.

“If you have details which could assist us in our enquiries then please get in touch.”

Anyone with information or dash cam footage of the moments leading up to the collision should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use the live chat or report forms on the force’s website.

For those unable to make contact via those ways, call 101. Please quote reference number NP-20260509-1033.