Crash victim was young man 'loved by hundreds'

Buy photos » Liam Chidlow was killed in a crash on the A45 near Stretton on Dunsmore. (s)

TRIBUTES have been paid to a young man 'loved by hundreds' who was killed in an accident on the A45.

Liam Chidlow was driving back from dropping his friend off at Birmingham Airport for her holiday when his car left the London Road and hit a tree near Stretton on Dunsmore at around 4.45am on Thursday November 15.

Paramedics were called to the scene but could do nothing to save the 23 year-old, who lived on Saunton Road, and was a team leader at Sainsbury's on Dunchurch Road.

Mr Chidlow's aunt, Julie Beard, told the Observer: "His parents are devastated. As you might imagine the family are in bits.

"If you look at his Facebook he was loved by hundreds, all saying the same thing, how he was always smiling, a great friend and listener.

"He was also into cars in a big way, he loved cars and they were his life.

"Everyone there thought the world of him as he was a good worker, listener and friend to everyone."

Early police tests indicated Mr Chidlow had not been speeding and had not had anything to drink at the time of the crash, which happened during foggy conditions.

Mr Chidlow went to Ashlawn School and began working full-time at Sainsbury's aged 16. He had risen to the position of team leader and was a well respected member of staff.

He leaves behind his father Clive and mother Diane, and stepbrother Mark and stepsister Chloe.

Friends of Mr Chidlow's gathered at Junction One retail park on Sunday (November 18) evening. Over 70 cars turned out to drive in convoy to the scene of the accident where they released balloons and lanterns, laid flowers and paid their respects.

His aunt said: "Liam and his friends went there together often, so it was a great tribute to a wonderful young man.

"It was amazing, and the whole thing was organised by his friends, especially Amy Smith who has been brilliant."

Mr Chidlow's manager at Sainsbury's, Dominic Zeall, said: "The store has been a different place to be in. We all know something is missing and that is Liam.

"He would always do anything for anybody. He worked in a number of departments in his eight years at the store and brightened the lives of everyone he worked with.

"He had a great sense of humour and this endeared him to all, young and old. The light he brought to the store will be greatly missed."

Regional news »