TRIBUTES have been paid to a Newton Abbot man who died after being in collision with a car as he walked along the Dawlish to Teignmouth road.

Steve McKay, 58, suffered serious head injuries in the accident with a Citroen Picasso at Holcombe on December 1.

He was airlifted by Devon Air Ambulance to Plymouth’s Derriford Hospital where he died three days later. The coroner has been informed.

Mr McKay, whose late father Ted was a Post Office inspector based in Newton Abbot, was a retired hospital porter.

Liz Stirling, senior matron at Newton Abbot Hospital, said: ‘Staff here were shocked and saddened to hear that Steve had died following the accident.

‘He was a well-liked and respected member of the Newton Abbot Hospital staff who had worked at the hospital for over 30 years in a number of roles before he retired.’

She added: ‘On behalf of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, I would like to extend sincere condolences to his friends and family.’

Mr McKay was also a popular member of the Teign University of the Third Age (U3A), a learning organisation for the retired and semi-retired.

A spokesman said: ‘In recent years Steve had become a member of the group. He was particularly interested in local history and genealogy and was an active and enthusiastic member of the family history group.

‘He was also a keen photographer and was a leading light in U3A’s focus group – made up of members committed to getting more enjoyment out of their photographic skills.’

He added: ‘Steve was himself already a very skilful photographer and always on hand to offer friendly and constructive advice to other members.

‘He epitomised the philosophy of U3A through which members enjoy learning from each other. As such he will be sadly missed.’

Three years ago he took part in a 15-mile night-time walk (pictured) to raise money for the Fight for Sight charity which helps victims of Nystagmus, an eye movement condition which affected him throughout life.

Police have re-issued an appeal for witnesses of the accident to come forward.

They should ring 101 or email [email protected] quoting log 427 of December 1.

The collison caused huge tailbacks of traffic and prompted senior officers to criticise some motorists for their impatience, bad language and lack of sympathy during the ensuing delays.