Family’s tribute to Harleston man Rik Newton who died in car crash

Rik Newton with his sister Carly. Picture: Newton family. (Image: Archant)

The family of a man who died in a car crash have paid tribute to the 'cheeky chap whose smile was so contagious'.

Rik Newton, from Harleston, who died when his car left the road and overturned on The Street in Starston on Saturday night, has been described as a family man who was 'devoted' to his three children and his fiancée Hannah.

A statement released on behalf of his family said: 'What can we say? We are broken. Rik, bud, pal, skin. A heart as big as his front and loved by everyone who met him.

'As soon as he walked in a room you could feel his presence and he would light it up with his humour.

'A cheeky chap whose beautiful smile was so contagious. No matter how angry you were at him, he could always make you smile. He had so much love to give and would help anyone if they needed it.

'He put everyone else first. Our lives will forever have a massive Rik shaped hole a nuclear bomb couldn't fill.'

They added: 'We are overwhelmed by the love and words of kindness we have received from those who knew Ricky. It just shows how loved he was. We hope he knows this. Love you forever.'

A Crowdfunding page set up by Kati Leeson, a colleague and friend of Mr Newton's fiancée, has already raised more than £4,500 to go towards funeral costs.

Miss Leeson said: 'We all want to help as much as we can. I know that Rik and Hannah were really loved so I wasn't surprised [so much has been donated]. I just know she will struggle without him so I know this will help her.

'We have had people donate £100 a go.'

Mr Newton worked as a scaffolder at Diss scaffolding.

Ross Talbot, one of the directors of the company, described him as a 'happy go lucky' man.

He said: 'He was part of the team for six, nearly seven years and we are devastated to be fair.

'He was happy go lucky and enjoyed life. He was devoted to his kids and his partner. He loved his kids more than anything in the world.

'I knew him as a friend as well as an employee. He was a really lovely family man. He also liked the social side of life. He loved his work.'

Mr Newton's family added: 'We cannot thank the fire service and its crew, paramedics and police services for their efforts in aiding Rick. We are forever in your debt and you really do not receive enough credit for the amazing job you do.'

Details of Mr Newton's funeral will be shared by his family when it has been arranged.

The crash happened at about 9.30pm and anyone with information is asked to contact the police's Serious Collision Investigation Team at Wymondham on 101.

To donate to the Crowdfunding page click here.