Devastated family pay tribute to ‘loved’ football coach killed in Storm Darragh

The first victim of Storm Darragh has been named as local football coach Paul Fiddler, as tributes poured in for the man in his 40s.

Mr Fiddler, who also worked at a TV shop, was killed after a tree fell on his Citroen car while driving on the A59 at Longton, near Preston, at around 9am on Saturday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His death was the first of two related to the storm, which caused chaos on Britain’s roads and trains, as well as severe flooding.

Lytham Town FC, which list Mr Fiddler as first team manager, described him as a “legend” of the club.

“A beloved coach, footballer, gaffer but most of all a true friend,” the statement read.

“Paul, you did everything, my friend. Our thoughts are with the Lytham Town boys, his friends and family at this time.

“Rest in Peace Paul. We will miss you.”

Mr Fiddler’s granddaughter, Katie Elliot, described him as a “great grandfather”.

“I love you so much uncle Paul,” she wrote on Facebook. “I wish I knew you or even saw you. I miss you more than ever, and you will always be in my heart.

“All I could ask is for you to text me and make me laugh like you always do and talk to you one last time.

“Thank you for everything you have done for me and for being the uncle I could have asked for, and I hope wherever you are you know how many people are here for you.”

One of Mr Fiddler’s friends wrote on social media: “My heart goes out to Paul’s family at this sad time for everyone who had the opportunity to know him.

“Paul was a great support to countless families in their time of need, and his kindness will always be remembered.”

Detective Sergeant Matt Davidson, from Lancashire Police’s serious collision investigation unit, said: “It is sad that this incident has resulted in the death of a man and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.

“The investigation is ongoing, and I’m asking anyone who saw what happened or has a dashcam or cell phone to come forward.”