The families of a man and a woman who were killed when their taxi collided with a car in Leigh on Saturday have paid tribute to their loved ones.
Kenneth Grimshaw, 59, and Emma Houghton, 23, died after they collided with a Vauxhall Astra at around 4am on Twist Lane at the junction with Kendal Grove.
Kenneth, the driver of the taxi, died from multiple injuries at the scene while Emma who was sat at the rear seat was rushed to hospital with a head injury but died later that day.
The driver of the Astra was taken to hospital with leg injuries but has since been discharged.
Emma’s family said: “Taken from us too early, Emma was a young girl that loved life. Emma will be missed dearly by all those that loved her and still love her.”
Kenneth’s family said: “Ken was a loving, devoted father to his two daughters and a caring granddad to his three young grandchildren. He was a truly larger than life character who was always smiling and found humour in almost every situation.
“To say that Ken was selfless would be a massive understatement. He was generous with not only his money but with his time too. He always made time for all of his family and friends, of whom there were many, and did this despite the fact he was unbelievably hard working.
“It is somewhat ironic that Ken died doing what he loved and on the street where he was born and raised.
“He will be remembered by everyone who knew him as a good-hearted, kind, family-oriented man. He will be sadly missed by everyone whose life he touched. Rest in peace.”
Greater Manchester Police has launched an investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Police Constable Paul Hailwood, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our thoughts continue to be with the families of Ken and Emma, as they try to come to terms with the devastating events of this weekend, and we are supporting them as best we can at this difficult time.
“We are asking for any witnesses that saw either the silver Astra or the metallic blue Mondeo private-hire taxi driving shortly before this incident occurred, to contact us.”
Anyone with information should call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741/4745.
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