TRIBUTES have been paid to a "kind and loving" taxi driver who died in a crash.

Sixty-five year-old taxi driver Norman Bullock from Grays died after a crash between his red Peugeot 308 and a black BMW X5 on the A128 Brentwood Road at around 4am on October 5.

In a statement, Norman’s wife Moira Bullock said: “You were a kind a loving man, who worked hard all your life.”

“You had a wicked sense of humour and a ready smile which I miss so much”.

“You were the other half of me. Till we meet again. Love forever.”

She added: “I would like to express my thanks for all the lovely tributes, cards, and flowers.

“All the offers of help at this sad time, and a special thank you to Thameside Taxis for their support, help and care, especially Kevin Stoker who has been a real diamond.”

A 21 year-old man – Edvinas Pupkis, of Devonshire Road, Ilford – has been charged with causing death by careless driving, aggravated vehicle taking, failing to report a collision, and failing to stop in connection to the crash.

He is next due to appear at Basildon Crown Court on November 5.