Tributes have today been made to a “happy-go-lucky” former soldier killed when his car was in collision with a lorry in Shropshire.
Gareth Hughes, 37, from Market Drayton, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which happened at about 5.30am on May 9 on the A442 near Peplow.
Manchester United fan Mr Hughes, a lorry driver, was on his way to work in Wellington when his red Renault Megane was in collision with a white articulated lorry and then a tree.
The former Royal Welch Fusilier was married and lived in Highfields with his wife Leah Hughes, step-daughter Sharn, four, and the couple’s eight-month-old daughter, Rhiannon.
Mrs Hughes today said: “He was a happy-go-lucky man and very popular in the town. I’m still in shock really and don’t know what to say.
“He was a brilliant man, a loving husband and a great dad. It makes you wonder why these things have to happen when you’re happy.
“He used to be a bit of a lad, especially when he was in the Army, but he had become settled and content.
“We have had a lot of support since it happened from family and friends.”
His parents Melfyn 71, and Valmai, 69, who live in Jones Street, Blaenau Ffestiniog, today spoke of the support they have received.
His mother said: “We are totally devastated. Gareth joined the army straight from school and served for 18 years in the RWF.
“He was always determined to follow a career in the service.”
Mr Hughes also leaves a teenage son Geraint, from his previous marriage, who lives in North Wales.
The funeral service for Mr Hughes will be held at Christ Church, Market Drayton, on Monday.
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