Liverpool jogger struck by van will be 'missed forever' - family

John Newton, 81, was "still enjoying running and cycling", his family said

The family of a jogger who died after he was hit by a van have said he will be "forever in our hearts".

John Newton, 81, was struck on Sunday evening in the Norris Green area of Liverpool and died in hospital on Monday.

His family appealed for anyone with information about his death "to have a turn of conscience" and come forward.

Two men and a woman who were previously held over the incident have been bailed pending further inquiries.

A 25-year-old man and a woman, 44, from Westvale, Kirkby, were arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and drug driving offences.

A 37-year-old man, of Mossley Hill, was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

'Still active'

Mr Newton was struck by a silver van on Utting Avenue East at about 18:30 GMT.

Merseyside Police had earlier issued an appeal to identify the jogger through what he was wearing while out running.

In a tribute, his family said: "The family wish to express their sincere thanks to everyone that came to help our beloved dad.

"John is missed by his whole family including children, grandchildren and the community we live in.

"He was well-known in the area having owned his own garage and worked as a mechanic for over 50 years before semi-retiring last year."

The family said he was "still very active and enjoying running and cycling".

"We hope that those responsible for his death or that know anything will have a turn of conscience and come forward to the police," they said.

They added: "He will forever be in our hearts."

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