TRIBUTE has been paid to the Southampton man who died in a Royal Mail van crash.

As previously reported, at around 7.38am on Saturday June 6, officers were called to The Downs Road on the Isle of Wight after a Royal Mail delivery van crashed down a steep embankment during a single-vehicle collision.

Michael Horne, 40, from Sholing, Southampton was pronounced dead at the scene despite the best effort from paramedics.

Now, Michael's family have paid tribute to him.

They said: "We are absolutely devastated by this tragic event. Michael was a wonderful son and brother, loving husband and devoted father to two amazing children. 

“He was an avid Saints supporter and an active member of Sholing Football Club, spending many enjoyable hours as assistant coach to the U14 and U12 White teams. We have been deeply touched by the outpouring of sympathy and kind messages from the local community. 

“As a Royal Mail delivery driver, Michael had been a key worker throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and we just can't believe he won't be coming home to us. Our lives will never be the same again and we miss him terribly.   

"He still had his life to live and he has left a large hole in ours. He probably never realised how many people loved him.” 

Investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision are ongoing and anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting the reference number of 44200202668, or alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.