Family tribute to man who died in road traffic collision, as police appeal for witnesses - Kingsey

The family of a man who died in a road traffic collision in Kingsey last Thursday (21/5) have today released tributes to him.

Andrew George Sokell, aged 49 and from Aylesbury, was in a Peugeot Partner van when he was involved in a collision with a Volkswagen Golf on the A4129, close to the turning for the The Player Forge football pitch, shortly before 11.40am. He sadly died at the scene.

The driver of the Golf, a 33-year-old man from Princes Risborough, has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and causing death by dangerous driving. He has been released from custody on police bail to allow for further enquiries to continue.

Officers are supporting Andrew’s family and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The parents of Andrew, known to loved ones as Andy, have released the following tribute:

“It is extremely difficult for a parent to write a tribute to their child who has died, especially when the death was so sudden and unexpected.

“Andy was a son, a brother, a father and a friend to many.

“Our memories of him as a child was a boy who loved to play the fool and make other children laugh. If ever there was a lot of giggling we knew that Andy would be the one causing the laughter.

“Growing up, he and his older sister were extremely close, and they spent long summer days playing tennis, going for walks down the lanes and going to the beach. He looked up to her, and she always looked after her ‘baby brother’.

“As an adult Andy has always worked, taking any jobs going, from stripping metal in acid to car valeting, barman to delivery driver. No job was too big or small; he was just happy to be working.

“His biggest achievement was when he became a father to his daughter, who will turn 12 next month. He was a great Dad and loved her with all his being, she was his reason for living.

“Losing Andy has been an enormous shock to all who knew and loved him, he has left a hole that can never be filled.”

Andy’s ex-partner, mother to his daughter, and his daughter have issued the below tributes:

“Andy was taken from us all far too soon. He leaves behind the person he loves the most, his daughter, Ava.

“If you knew Andy, you knew a man with a huge heart. He was a quick-witted man who always had a joke ready and loved making people laugh.

“He worked hard, loved hard, laughed loud and was a very proud dad.

“To everyone that knew Andy, thank you for loving him and keeping his memory alive.”

“To my dad,

I miss you so much, you were the best dad in the world. You always made me laugh and looked after me. I will miss everything about you, the smile and the hugs the most. I’m going to be brave for you. I will never forget you.

Love you forever

Ava xx”

Senior Investigating Officer DI Alice Broad from the Major Crime Unit, who is leading the investigation, said: ““Our thoughts remain with Andy’s friends and family as our investigation into the circumstances of this collision progresses.  

“We have been carrying out a number of enquiries and urge anyone who saw what happened, or the moments leading up to it, to please get in touch if you have not already spoken to police.

“Anyone with information can call 101 quoting reference 43260251815, or if you have dash cam footage you can upload it through our online reporting page.” 

DB