TOUCHING tributes have been paid to man killed in a car crash.

Dean Mattei, 48, from Colchester, suffered serious head injuries after a crash in Lexden Road, Colchester, on March 31.

It is believed to have involved a Hyundai i30.

Mr Mattei was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

He sadly died in hospital a week later on Sunday, April 7.

In tribute, Mr Mattei’s family said: “Dean was a great son, a wonderful big brother, uncle and great uncle.

“He lived a somewhat unorthodox life and was known and loved by many from the rough sleeping community in Colchester, and to artists via Colchester Institute and Slack Space.

“His death is a terrible shock but we are greatly comforted by all the messages of support we have received.

"Dean is survived by his mum, Eileen, sister Sophie, nephew Zak, niece Chloe, great nephews and niece Henry, Damien and Belle and his girlfriend, Lynne.

“We are so thankful to the Neurological Critical Care Unit at Addenbrooke’s for looking after Dean.

“Dean was an organ donor and we hope the gift he gave through his death brings life and hope to others.”

The collision occurred on Lexden Road at around 2.35am on March 31.

No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information which may assist the policeinvestigation is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 quoting the incident number 123 of March 31.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.