Tributes have been paid to a man who died following a collision in Benfleet on Sunday, December 3.

A white Mercedes Sprinter van and a black Seat Ibiza were in collision in Rayleigh Road at around 3am.

The driver of the Seat, 34 year-old Allan Player, was treated by paramedics but, sadly, died at the scene.

In a statement, Allan’s fiancée Denise said: “Allan was my soul mate and childhood sweetheart.

“He was a doting father to our daughter and lived for time spent together as a family. He was always there to help others and enjoyed life to the max.

“Allan had a laid back character but was enthusiastic and dedicated to the things he loved. He worked hard to give us the best he could every day!

“Allan has left a complete void in his daughter’s and my life. I have spent my entire adult life with him and feel like half of me is missing.

“He has been taken from us in such a sudden tragic way it all just feels so unfair. Allan will be missed every moment of every day and will be loved and remember so fondly by everyone that knew him but especially those closest to him.

“I would like to say a personal thank you to all our friends and family that have been so supportive going through something so tragic.

“I will love you forever Allan.”

Allan’s brother, Lee, said: “We’ll miss the brother, the son, who was always quick with the inappropriate line, who was always eager to go off on another adventure.

“As the boy who tested his limits, and who we fought with and loved in equal measures.”