TRIBUTES have been paid to a father-of-two who died in a collision in Mapledurham last week.

Lawrence Aldridge, 28, died after the silver Mitsubishi Shogun he was a passenger in crashed in Pond Lane at 11.50pm on Wednesday, August 22.

Mr Aldridge, who was from Goring Heath, was reportedly thrown from the car and despite the best efforts of emergency services, he died at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle suffered minor injuries and was taken to the Royal Berkshire Hospital, but has since been discharged.

On Tuesday (28) Mr Aldridge's family paid tribute to the 'popular' father-of-two, who ran his own business.

The statement said: "“Lawrence was the father of two young girls and was a loving husband to Rachel.

“He was from Goring Heath, near Reading, and was the beloved son of Arthur and Rosemary Aldridge.

“Lawrence operated his own business across the area in forestry and agriculture.

“He was a very popular and well known member of the community and will be missed by many people.

“We would like to request that we are given time and space to grieve following such a tragic loss.”

Police are asking for anybody with any information regarding the crash to come forward.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Katy Kent, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Sadly a man died following the collision and we are working to establish the circumstances. I would like to appeal to anyone who was in the area at around the time of the collision who witnessed it, or who saw the vehicle travelling in the area prior to the collision, to come forward and speak to police.

“If you have any information which could assist, please speak to officers.

“The victim’s next of kin are being supported by a specially-trained family liaison officer at this very difficult time.”

If you have any information, please call our 24-hour enquiry centre on 101 quoting the reference ‘43180258266’ or by reporting it online.