THE family of a man who sadly died in a collision on the A36 at Codford have paid tribute to him.

Nicholas Butler, aged 54, of Frome, was driving a Saab 9-3, when, for reasons unknown, he collided with a Skoda Octavia at approximately 4.45pm on Thursday, January 31.

His partner Hannah Dewings said:"I am sorry to announce the sad passing of our Nick.

"He will always be my wonderful loving partner, adoring and proud father and grandfather, amazing and thoughtful son and brother, and kind generous friend.

"Nick enhanced all our lives and was deeply loved by us all. We are all understandably devastated by our loss and respectfully ask for privacy at this time.

"We would like to thank Nick's friends and loved ones for their support at this very difficult time.

"Nick touched so many lives and was loved by so many. He will be deeply missed by us all. Forever in our hearts."

Police said a Saab 9-3 travelling north and a Skoda Octavia going south were involved in a head-on collision at around 4.45pm half a mile from the Salisbury Road junction with the A303.

Both drivers were taken to Southampton Hospital with serious injuries. Mr Butler died in hospital several hours later.

The woman driver of the Skoda, who is 40 and from Salisbury, remains in hospital with serious injuries to the lower part of her body.

The A36 was closed for seven hours while officers conducted an investigation into the crash.

Many drivers were caught in the tailback immediately following the accident, while some managed to divert to alternative routes.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have information about the collision, as well as anyone who may have dash-cam footage, to please get in touch by calling 101 and quote log number 206 of January 31.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.