Crash victim was 'life and soul of the party'

Tom Grindey, 21, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash

A man who died in a crash near Stoke-on-Trent had an infectious character and was the “life and soul of the party”, his family said.

Tom Grindey, from Trentham, died at the scene of the crash on the A34 Stone Road at about 20:30 GMT on Saturday.

Paying tribute to the 21-year-old, Mr Grindey’s family said he was a “dearly loved” son, brother and grandson.

“Tom was so well liked and loved by everyone for his infectious character,” they added.

“He was the life and soul of the party and would do anything for anybody, lighting up the room wherever he went with his lovely smile and practical jokes. He will be greatly missed by so many.”

The family also thanked people for their comforting words, messages and support.

The crash, which happened between the Trentham Estate and the Monkey Forest island, involved a grey BMW, driven by Mr Grindey, and a black Renault Clio.

A passenger in the BMW and the driver of the Renault were taken to hospital and have since been discharged, police said.

Officers urged anyone who might have been in the area at the time and could have information or dashcam footage to get in touch.