THE family of a caring man who was due to soon become a father has issued a moving tribute to him.

Christopher Smith sadly died on Wednesday, November 16, following a three-vehicle crash on the M6 at Thelwall Viaduct.

The incident occurred at 12.30am the previous day on the northbound carriageway between junctions 20 for the M56 at Lymm and 21 for Woolston.

Now, the family of the 41-year-old St Helens man has issued a heartfelt tribute to someone they describe as caring and funny.

“Christopher was a loving son, brother and uncle, and he was devoted to his partner Mandy,” the tribute reads.

“The couple were awaiting the arrival of their first child, and Christopher was extremely excited about the prospect of becoming a father himself.

“Christopher was very close to his family, and nothing was ever too much trouble for him in regard to his friends.

“He loved to spend time with Mandy and working to provide for her, and also enjoyed watching and playing football.

“Christopher will always be remembered for his great sense of humour. Following his death Christopher has donated his organs so that others can live on.”

A 28-year-old man from North Wales has since been charged in connection with the incident.

He is currently in custody and is set to appear at Chester Crown Court on Wednesday 14 December.

After attending the scene, police found that the incident involved three vehicles – a black Peugeot 107, a white Volkswagen Scirocco and a Peugeot 307.

The road was closed for around seven hours after the incident for investigative work.

A suspect in the crash was alleged to have fled Thelwall Viaduct on foot in the aftermath of the crash, with police later confirming that a man was arrested.

John Yates was subsequently charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to provide a specimen for analysis, failing to stop after a road accident and failing to report that accident.

The 28-year-old, of no fixed abode, but of north Wales, appeared before Chester Magistrates' Court and was remanded in custody.

He is next set to appear at Chester Crown Court next month.