Patrick Anthony Burns, known as Tony was from Westacres, he was killed after his lorry crashed with another truck on the Poyntzpass Road in County Down.

He was 63.

Another man injured in the accident was taken to hospital, his injuries were not thought to be life-threatening.

Arlene Burns said her father was a lovely man who always went out of his way to help people: "He was just working a few odd jobs here and there.

"He had left for work that morning and it was shortly after 9am I heard about the accident, it was not until 10.30am the news came through he had died.

"It was a real shock for us we have been left totally devastated, he was a fit and healthy man who had many years ahead of him, it was a real freak accident from what we have been told."

She continued: "He had a real gift of the gab, he loved talking to people and lending a hand, he was always helping people and would always be close by to offer his support.

"He was a very popular man and very honest, he will be sadly missed, not only have I lost a father but a very close friend."

Mr Burns' wife died over 16 years ago, he had been living in Westacres for over 25 years, his neighbours paid a tribute.

One neighbour said: "You hear of people being killed on the roads nearly every week and until it is someone you know you never realise the hurt and grief this kind of death brings.

"Tony was a total gentleman, very private but you could always rely on him for help.

"In all the time we were neighbours, over 25 years, there was never a bad word between us he was just a real gentleman."

Mr Burns was buried in Bryansford, County Down alongside his wife Mildred, he is survived by his sister, Patricia, brothers Malachi and Kevin.

He had two daughters Arlene Burns and Patricia Fay and five grandchildren, Natalie, Michael, Ciaran, Holly and Lauren.

Director of Thompson Fuels, Mark Thompson, said everyone at the company has been left stunned and saddened by Mr Burns' death.

"Tony was on his way to Newry with a load of pallets when the accident happened," said Mark.

"I spoke to him before he left and as usual he was in a great mood, the last thing he said to me was it was a beautiful morning.

"Tony was only with us since September but in that time he became a very popular member of staff.

"He was always joking and carrying on and was very well liked by his work colleagues.

"His death has come as a massive shock to us all, his car is still parked in our yard and it is hard to look at it and think he won't be coming back to collect it.

"When we heard there had been an accident we didn't realise how serious it was. As we have lorries on the road there are inevitably bumps and scrapes and when news of Tony's accident came through we immediately thought this was the case.

"We certainly didn't think the news was going to be so devastating. Our thoughts go out to Tony's family circle at this sad time."