Family describes crash victim as 'kind and caring'

Thomas Pritchard will be missed by all who knew him, his family have said

A "kind and caring" man who died in a car crash had been about to move in with his long-term partner, his family have said.

Thomas Pritchard, 29, was killed when his red Mini came off Ballam Road in Lytham and smashed into a tree on 23 April, said Lancashire Police.

His family described the NHS worker as a "helpful young man, with a high emotional intelligence, who had his whole life ahead of him".

A 19-year-old from St Annes who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving has been released under investigation pending further inquiries.

Mr Pritchard's family said: "He loved life and was on the verge of moving in with his long-time partner, a change he was really looking forward to making."

"He was caring and kind and made everyone feel important."

They said he was "proud" to work for the NHS as an administrator.

The family added: "He will be missed by us all."

The arrested 19-year-old was driving a black Seat Ibiza.

Sgt Laura Kendall said: "We're continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and are appealing for information or footage that could assist our enquiries."

She urged anyone with information to contact the force.

"If you saw the vehicles in the moments before the collision, or have dashcam footage of Ballam Road, please do the responsible thing and get in touch," she said.