The family of a man who died following a collision near Workington in the early hours of Easter Sunday have paid tribute to his life, saying his passing “leaves an unrepairable void” in all their lives.
Andrew Caine, 48, from Workington, was a passenger in a red Volkswagen Golf involved in a one-vehicle collision at the Stainburn bypass just after midnight on April 20.
In a statement, the family said: “We are heartbroken beyond words.
“Andrew was the kindest father, son, stepson, brother, uncle, cousin and brother in-law that we could have ever wished for. His passing leaves an unrepairable void in all our lives.
“None of us can comprehend that we will never see his smile or hear his laugh again.
“Andrew was an Army veteran who deployed with the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment to Iraq in 2004. He loved his time in the military and was so proud to have served.
“As a family we take great comfort that Andrew’s last day with us was one surrounded by his family and friends full of love and laughter celebrating his sister’s wedding.
“We would like to thank all the emergency services that attended the scene, our Cumbria Police liaison for the support she has given our family and the staff at Armathwaite Hall for their care and compassion shown to us on that terrible day.
“We will all remember Andrew fondly and miss him greatly.”
The driver of the vehicle, a man, 43, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while over the prescribed limit of drugs and alcohol.
He has since been released by police under investigation.
The driver was taken to hospital following the collision but his injuries are not serious.
Police continue to appeal for witnesses to the collision.
In particular, officers would like to speak to anyone who saw the car travelling on or around the A66 on Saturday night at about midnight.
Anyone with information can email officers on: SCIU@cumbria.police.uk
Alternatively, you can contact police on 101. Please refer to log one of April 20.