A MAN who died after being struck by a van in Haslingden has been named as Matthew Taylor.

Mr Taylor, a father-of-four from the town, was hit by a Mercedes Sprinter near to the Jet petrol station on Manchester Road at about 8pm on Wednesday.

Police said he was walking on the pavement and the van collided with him as it was leaving the petrol station.

The 43-year-old was taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital by ambulance with chest and leg injuries but despite the efforts of medics he was later pronounced dead.

Mr Taylor worked as a deputy estates manager with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service until late last year before he moved on to work for Salford Royal Hospitals NHS Trust.

During his time at GM Fire and Rescue Service he was responsible for many new projects including new fire stations at Ashton and Rochdale.

Shelley Wright, director of GM Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Matt was an extremely well known and well-liked member of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service for many years.

“News of his death has shocked everyone and we are all utterly devastated.

“When we heard the news on Thursday we gathered together and lowered the flag to half-mast at headquarters as a mark of respect to someone we will miss very much.

“It will remain at half-mast until after Matt’s funeral.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this deeply sad time.

“We would like them to know that Matt will remain part of our family forever and we will always feel very grateful and blessed he was part of our team.”

Following CCTV enquiries, police are keen to speak to two possible witnesses who were in Manchester Road moments before the collision.

Officers said a man was seen walking along the same route moments before the incident and a woman was on the opposite side of the road, getting into her car on Hall Street as the collision occurred.

In a statement Lancashire Police said: “His family have respectfully requested privacy at this time.”