The family of a man who was killed in an industrial incident at a skip hire yard have paid tribute to him.

James Criddle, known as Jimmy, died on May 15 when he was working at Baldwin Skip Hire in Besthorpe, near Attleborough.

A statement from mother, Naomi Criddle and girlfriend, Holly Eagling, said Mr Criddle was a much-loved friend, family member and father to a young daughter, Lexi.

It read: 'James was a big part of our family - partner to Holly and father to Lexi.

'A son to Naomi, brother to Alan and an uncle to Oliver, nephew, cousin and grandson.

'Dearly loved and missed by us all. He is now with his dad Colin, who he lost in 1999.

MORE: Man dies in industrial incident at skip hire firm in Besthorpe

'We, as a family, would like to thank friends and colleagues for all the fundraising they are doing for us – and for all the kind messages sent.

'He was a kind, loving and caring person; doing anything for anyone. Hardly moaned and always did his best for anyone.

'He will be desperately missed.'

The statement went on to ask that the family be left to grieve in peace after their loss.

It read: 'All we ask is for us, the family, to be left in peace to grieve and get on with life as normal as we can for his daughter's sake.'

Mr Criddle was a fan of racing banger cars. Before he died, he was fitting out a car with good friend Jamie Read which he hoped to race.

Family members and friends have launched a fundraising appeal to finish off the car and race it in his memory, and help cover flowers and other funeral costs.

Craig Lathan, a longtime friend of Mr Criddle's, also paid tribute to him, saying: 'If you asked him to do anything it was always a yes.

'That's why I liked helping him out when I could.

MORE: Appeal launched to finish James Criddle's banger car after death at work in Besthorpe

'He was a top lad. Always had a smile on his face. Holly and Lexi loved him dearly. He cared for them loads and had loads of respect for everyone.'

Police detectives are continuing to work alongside colleagues from the Health and Safety Executive to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The fundraising page can be found at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/James-Criddle

A Facebook page called 'In memory of Jimmy' has been set up in his memory.