Dedicated former teacher inspired many youngsters to get involved in sport

TRIBUTES have been paid to the Seaton pensioner killed in Monday’s car crash on the A3052.

Richard Sawbridge, 68, died from his injuries after his Renault Megane was in collision with an Audi R8 near Hangman’s Stone at around 10.45am.

Today his family spoke of their tragic loss and of a man whose dedicated work in the community would also be sorely missed.

They said: “Richard Sawbridge, loving husband of Hilary, devoted father to Cary, Toby and Charlotte, adored grandfather of Aaron, Charlie-Sky, Maddy, Olly and Will, died tragically on Monday 30 January in a road traffic accident.

“Richard was utterly committed to the community and, in particular, had a life -long dedication to teaching disadvantaged young people. As with everyone he touched throughout his life, he never gave up on anyone he taught. Students regularly returned and, often many years later, acknowledged the huge impact that he had had on their lives.

“Despite a truly extraordinary lack of personal sporting prowess, he inspired many youngsters to get involved in rugby and cricket. He was instrumental in building the Sidmouth Rugby Club junior sides to the size and following that they have today.

“A funeral date will be forthcoming. The family have requested that flowers are not left at the scene of the accident.

“His loss is sorely felt and he will be forever held dear in the hearts of his family and friends.”

Following the crash the driver of the Audi, a 52-year-old Colyton man was arrested and later released on police bail, until April 23, pending further police investigations.

Police collision investigators are keen to hear from any witnesses who were travelling on the A3052 prior to the collision and may have seen the distinctive Audi R8 Coupe or any other vehicle which may have been involved to contact them on 101 quoting police reference 387 300112.