Bolton: Family tribute to William Watson after accident

William Watson, aged 80, died as a result of his injuries after the collison on Blackburn Road, Astley Bridge on December 16.

His family say Mr Watson, known as Bill, was a keen traveller and walker and will be greatly missed.

In a statement his family said:"William Watson, known to all as Bill, was taken from us on the 16th of December 2022 in tragic circumstances.

"He was an 80-year-old former garage owner from Egerton, where he’s lived most of his life.

"He was a very proud family man and loving partner.

"He loved walking, spending time in the Lake District and travelling the world with his partner Jean.

Scene of accident (Image: Google Maps)

"He was fiercely protective of all of his family, in particular his Grandchildren who he loved greatly.

"He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him."

The serious road traffic accident happened at around noon, resulting in the juction around Crompton Way being closed for a number of hours following the tragedy.

Fire, ambulance and police attending the scene.

In a statement at the time North West Ambulance Service said: "

A North West Ambulance Service spokesperson added: “We were called at 12.41pm to a road traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.

“We sent various resources including an ambulance and an air ambulance."

Blackburn Road junction site of 3 crashes in 4 days

Concerns raised after crash on busy Blackburn Road junction

Although the cause of this collision is not known, there have been a number of incidents at the junction, which has been at the centre of improvement works since April

There have been calls to make the junction safer for users as road works take place.

The works are part of 

The scheme to improve the junction is designed to reduce congestion and improve safety as well as provide better facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

The scheme value is £1.0m and is funded by the GM Growth Deal Fund.