A PATIENT was killed as he ran from the entrance of Leighton Hospital in Crewe and was struck by a car.

Maurice Cookson, of Middlewich Road, Winsford, was being treated in Leighton at the time of the accident.

The 52-year-old was knocked down by a Vauxhall Omega being driven by a local man on Friday night.

His family paid tribute to him yesterday, Tuesday.

Maurice's brother, Dennis, said: "He was a loving father and a family man. He was divorced and lived with his mum, Elsie. Maurice was Winsford born and bred.

"We are obviously very upset about what has happened. It was a tragic accident.

"We only lost my father last Christmas and it was Maurice that found him. It's been a difficult time for us."

Maurice worked as a process operator at Plastic Coating Ltd, Winsford Industrial Estate, for 20 years. He went on to work for a small firm in Middlewich for two years before retiring on ill health grounds.

Maurice attended Wharton School as a child and went on to Verdin High School.

He has left behind two sons, Steven, 30, Nigel, 28 and a daughter, Sharon, 26.

An inquest was opened and adjourned for a date to be fixed. The cause of death was given as multiple head injuries.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the accident. If you can help, Crewe Police can be contacted on 01270 500 222.

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