Melton Mowbray: Avon & Somerset Police have confirmed the identity of the two Samworth Brothers drivers who died in the multiple vehicle accident on the M5 last Friday (4 November).
Kye Thomas, from Gunnislake, had been driving for Samworth Brothers for over 15 years. He was usually based at Samworth Brothers’ Callington depot in Cornwall.
Tara Davis, transport manager for Samworth Brothers Distribution, said: “Kye had driven for us for 15 years and was a very well known and respected member of our team. He was a genuine and warm friend to everyone here. We also knew him as a dedicated husband and father. The news is heart-breaking and our thoughts are with his wife Becki, their four children, family and friends.”
Terry Brice, from Bristol, had worked for Samworth Brothers as a HGV driver for six months and was based at Samworth Brothers’ Bristol depot.
Max Johnson, operations manager at Samworth Brothers Distribution Bristol, said: “Terry only joined Samworth Brothers Distribution in Bristol just over six months ago but his friendly and generous nature will be missed by all of us here. The thoughts and prayers of all of us are with his family at this sad time.”
Johnson said that another Samworth Brothers Distribution driver based at the Callington depot was seriously injured in the crash and is currently recovering in Musgrove Park Hospital.
“We are pleased to hear from his family that he is making good progress,” said Johnson.
“We are in close contact with the families of Kye, Terry and our injured driver and are offering as much support and help as we can at this distressing time.”
Mark Samworth, a director of Samworth Brothers, said: “We would all like to thank the emergency services who attended the scene and who have been such a tremendous help to us over the last few days, as well as the public for the many messages of support and condolence we have received, particularly from the local community in the South West.”