Friends and work colleagues have paid tribute today to a 46-year-old Shropshire man who died following a car crash on the county border.

The friends and work colleagues described Christian Baker as “a larger than life character” and an “excellent friend”.

Mr Baker, of Bucknell, near Craven Arms, was one of two men who died following the accident involving a blue Nissan Almera and a blue Mercedes E300, at Wigmore.

Lewis Mather, 18, of Adforton, Herefordshire, also died in the crash, which happened at 7.30pm on Friday.

Earlier in the week, Mr Baker had given evidence at the murder trial of pawnbroker George Black.

Mr Baker, who was known as “Bart”, grew up in Bucknell, his friends said. He was a keen spectator at the Luctonians sports club and occasionally played rugby for the Bucknell Barbarians.

Simon Green-Price, for the Luctonians, said: “The flag was flying at half mast on Saturday. He has been a member of the club for about 10 years. It was a big shock to everybody.”

Will Davies, managing director of B & J Davies in Bucknell, said: “We played rugby together. He was such a larger than life character and a local boy.

“I don’t know what to say. We are all numb. What do you say about someone you thought the world of? He was an excellent friend.”

Mr Baker’s friend and former employer David Davies, managing director of Oakerwood Leisure, added: “I have known Chris for most of my life, he worked with me and has done for 20 years. He was one of life’s good guys. I am totally gutted.”

The coroner has been informed and it is expected that an inquest will be opened and adjourned this week. Police are also keen to hear from any witnesses.