THE HEARTBROKEN family of crash victim Simon Clark have fondly spoken of his special talent to make people laugh.

Dad-of-one Simon, 41, of Little Chittock, Basildon, died instantly in a collision in Theydon Bois last Friday afternoon.

His family said he was an exceptionally gentle and caring man.

In a touching statement, Simon's parents Jeanne and Peter and beloved fiance Simonne, said: "Simon touched everybody's hearts.

"He had the ability to make people laugh. He did enjoy a beer.

"He will be sadly missed by his family and friends."

His friends have also paid tribute to Simon, saying "he brightened up their childhood years".

Simon also leaves daughter Katie, 20, sisters Jane and Sarah and brother, Jason.

He worked as an under-pinner and piler, and lived most of his life in Basildon.

He was a keen Tottenham Hotspur fan and had plans to retire abroad and renovate an old property.

Simon was behind the wheel of a green Toyota Rav 4 travelling along Loughton Lane when his car collided with a silver Audi A2.

A 37-year-old woman, from Loughton, has been arrested on suspicion of drink-driving in connection with the incident.

She has been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Police are still appealing for witnesses to the crash, which happened at 3.50pm last Friday.

Anyone with information, call Chigwell traffic police on 01279 621866.