THE heartbroken family of a popular father-of-five who was killed in a crash in Bewdley have paid a loving tribute to him.

James Hammonds’ red Ford Fiesta was involved in a collision with a silver BMW on the B4194, Dowles Road, at around 6.45am on Friday, October 13.

The 28-year-old, from Walsall, was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, in Birmingham, with serious injuries, but tragically died.

His devastated family have said their “lives will never be the same again” and paid tribute to the “rare diamond”.

A statement from his family said: “James Hammonds was tragically taken away from us on October 13.

“He’s a son, a partner, a dad, a brother, a grandson, uncle, cousin and best friend.

“James, more popular known as J, is devoted to his family, his partner of four years Kirsty and his five children.

“James loved his new job, his motorbikes and his car. He loved fishing and country walks with his family and dogs.

“He’s a funny and caring person. He always had time for everybody.

“If anyone needed any help, James would be there with big beaming smile that would make everyone smile too.

“He was popular with everyone he met, loved by everyone and touched the hearts of whoever met him.”

They added: “We are all devastated and broken-hearted and our lives will never be the same again.

“Losing our son and our best friend is unbearable, but what keeps us going is the treasured memories that we have.

“Everyone’s special words make us proud that he is our son. He is a rare diamond, one in a million.

“He never came home that day and now he never will.

“He was taken too quickly and it has left a massive hole that can never be replaced. He will be so desperately missed by us all.

“Broken-hearted mom, dad and family.”

James’ family have also expressed their sincere thanks to every person that stopped and tried to help James after the crash, and that stayed with him.

The family said: “Words cannot thank you enough and we take great comfort that you tried and James was not on his own.”

West Mercia Police is carrying out an investigation into the crash and appealing for witnesses to contact them.

Anyone with information, should call officers on 101, quoting incident reference number 94S of October 13.