Tribute to father and son killed on M62

Date published: 04/08/2008

The family of a father and son who were killed in a collision on the M62 have paid tribute.
47-year-old Gary Proctor and his son James, 16, who are from Wakefield, were critically injured in the collision, which happened just before 6.00am on the M62 westbound near Rochdale on Sunday (3 August).

They had just passed Birch Services in their Fiat Punto when their car was in collision with a black Audi Quattro.

They were taken to hospital by ambulance but their injuries were too severe to save them and they were pronounced dead a short time later.

Gary's wife and James' mum Catherine, 44, was also seriously injured in the collision. She is currently in a stable condition in hospital being treated for broken ribs and a broken arm.

Members of Gary and James' family have paid tribute. They said: "They both really loved sport and they were both season tickets holders for the Leeds Rhinos rugby league team.

"James was a lovely, smashing lad. He was really thoughtful and very clever. He loved sport, in particular cricket, snowboarding and golf. He had saved his pocket money with the intention of buying a new set of golf clubs while on holiday in America.

"Gary and James regularly played golf together.

"Gary was quiet and unassuming, with a good sense of humour and loved a laugh. Both he and Catherine idolised James. They were looking forward to the holiday of a lifetime.

"We are in total disbelief. You say the words, but it just does not seem real."

The Audi had previously been seen driving at speed along the carriageway by drivers in the West Yorkshire area.

Police investigating this incident are appealing for anyone who witnessed this car driving along the motorway to get in touch urgently.

A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving and driving with excess alcohol. He remains in police custody for questioning.

Inspector Andy Hudson said: "This is an absolute tragedy for this family who had been on their way to Manchester Airport to start a summer holiday in America. My thoughts are with them all.

"We need anyone who saw this Audi being driven, possibly at speed, along the M62 westbound early this morning [Sunday] to call us straight away. You might have information that is vital to our investigation."

Anyone with any information about this collision, or who saw the Audi, is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.