Dad died hours after playing golf with friends

Lee Morton was described as "a source of joy, laughter, and kindness" to friends and family

A dad killed in a crash on the M57 has spent the morning with friends playing golf before he was killed.

Lee Morton, from Kirkby, died on Wednesday afternoon after his car left the carriageway between junctions two and three near Knowsley, Liverpool and caught fire.

In a tribute, his wife Marie said Lee was a "a source of joy, laughter, and kindness" to friends and family.

"One of his great passions was golf and on the day we lost him he had spent the morning doing exactly that, out on the course, happy and surrounded by friends," she said.

'Miss you forever Dad'

She added: "Above all, he was a dad to his girls who were his pride and joy. He loved them with his whole heart and they will carry his love with them always."

In a further tribute, his children said: "Our wonderful dad, we love you so much, our hearts are broken into a million pieces.

"We will look after your best friend Enzo for you we promise. I hope you can play golf up their dad.

"Going to miss listening to Dire straits, Eagles, David Bowie and ELO with you in the garden so much.

"Up the Reds!!! I know you will keeping a close eye on them from up there dad. We will love & miss you forever, Rest in paradise dad. Love your girls and Enzo."

People who were travelling on the M57 that day have been asked to submit any relevant dashcam footage to Merseyside Police.

Officers have said they believe an incident happened prior to the crash involving a dark coloured, 63 plate VW Golf GTi.