THE FAMILY of a man killed in a collision in Haslemere last month have paid tribute to the "big man with a big heart".

Thomas Werner Etzel, 54, was killed in a crash involving four vehicles and a horse box on Grayswood Road, Haslemere on July 30.

In a tribute to him, his family said: "Our son, brother and uncle was tragically taken from us in a road traffic accident in Haslemere.

"Tom was born in Duesseldorf, Germany, and moved to London with his parents and two brothers at the age of six.

"He moved around, attending Fernden Prep School and later Pierrepont School in Frensham. Tom gained a masters degree from London University and lived and worked in London before moving back to Surrey ten years ago.

"Tom enjoyed his work as a language teacher and a translator. These past few years he spent most of his time teaching German at the Ministry of Defence Academy in Oxfordshire.

"He particularly enjoyed working with keen students and in the friendly atmosphere.

"In his spare time, he enjoyed walking in and around Haslemere with his long-term partner Stephanie and their dog Jasper. He was also a keen film enthusiast with a film library of well over 1,000 movies.

"A big man with a big heart, Thomas was always quick to offer help and support to friends, neighbours and sometimes total strangers.

"He is survived by his mother, two brothers and six nieces and nephews as well as his long-time partner Stephanie."

Police are still appealing for information with regards to the collision. Those who witnessed anything or have dash-cam footage should get in touch quoting reference PR/P21163948.

Contact the police via webchat online at surrey. police.uk or by filling in a form online at https://www.surrey.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

Alternatively, call 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.