The family of a young man killed when his car was involved in a collision with a fire engine say they are desperate to know more about the incident.

Just two months before he was due to become a father for the second time, glazier Jamie Hierons, 22, of Pulpits Close, Hockley, died behind the wheel of his Ford Fiesta.

He was driving to his brother-in-law's home in South Woodham Ferrers when he collided head-on with the fire engine, which was on its way to an emergency call.

The car was smashed in two and the wreckage was spread more than 100 yards along the A132.

The exact cause of the incident is unknown and Jamie's devastated family are appealing for more witnesses to come forward.

Cuddling Jamie's sisters Carla, 20, Jo, 14, and his four-year-old daughter, Cherice, mum Christine Clarence said: "I am unable to bury my son until the inquiry is complete.

"We desperately need anyone who saw the incident to come forward. We must discover exactly how this happened.This family is tearing itself apart by not knowing all the details.

"Jamie's girlfriend Mina, who is due to give birth to his child in seven weeks time, is just devastated."

The family has been deluged with cards, phone calls and visits since Jamie's death.

Mrs Clarence said: "I have been overwhelmed with the response we have had. He was a very popular young man who touched so many lives. Everybody is totally gutted."

She added: "We are not looking for someone to blame. We are prepared to face the fact it may have been Jamie's fault. It is the not knowing that hurts."

Any witnesses should contact Chelmsford traffic police on 01245 452916.

Agony - mum Christine Clarence with Jamie's sisters Joanna, 14 and Carla, 20, and his four-year-old daughter, Cherice. Left - crash victim Jamie Hierons

Main picture: MAXINE CLARKE

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