THE partner of Andrew Salter, the 38-year-old dad of two from Wallasey who died following an accident on the M53 last Sunday, paid tribute to him today saying: "He was a big man with an even bigger heart of gold."

Andrew's fiancee Claire Upton said he was a loving and doting father to his two-year-old daughter Annie and ten-year-old son Andrew.

Claire said: "He would always make time for me, the children and his friends, especially his close friends, and would do anything for anyone. He was a shy and quiet man but when it came to me and his children he wore his heart on his sleeve.

"He was reliable and honest but the worst time-keeper ever! I learned very quickly to add an hour on to whatever time I wanted him to be ready.

"Although he didn’t enjoy school, Andrew worked really hard to better himself. He attended Wirral Metropolitan College to train and qualify as a mechanic. He continued to work hard which resulted in him becoming the sole business owner of North West Jag, Badger Way, Prenton."

Claire said his business customers would comment on how good a mechanic he was and he always went out of his way to source the best value parts and fit them in.

He took pride in his work and put a lot of time into his business.

She continued: "When he was young he had a true passion for cycling and regularly entered competitions. He was keen rugby player and enjoyed keeping fit.

"As he got older and began his mechanics course his passion changed from pedal power to horse power especially motorbikes and, of course, Jaguars.

"Despite his love for motorbikes and cars his true passion was me and his children. We were his priority and he would drop anything for us. When I needed him he was always there.

"Andrew loved Betws-Y-Coed and I remember one romantic weekend in December 2011 when we walked along the river in the rain and he got down on one knee in a puddle and said the words 'Claire, will you marry me?' He had even picked the perfect ring.

"This was one of the happiest days of my life and something I will never forget. In August 2012, our beautiful Annie was born and she changed our lives forever.

"I would like say to Andrew 'I miss you gorgeous, and I love you.

"I have lost my best friend and soul mate and Annie has lost the best dad in the world. She is always asking for you and I won't let her forget you.'"

An investigation is underway to establish what caused the Jaguar driven by Mr Salter to leave the M53 carriageway and hit the embankment. No other vehicles were involved.

It is understood his daughter was in the car with him at the time but was unhurt.