Family’s tribute to ‘much loved’ Wayne

Wayne Leary and his daughter Amy

Man held after hit-run death

THE devastated family of a man killed yards from his 11-year-old daughter in a hit-and-run accident have paid tribute to him.

Wayne Leary (38), a keen Oldham Athletic fan from Hollinwood, was crossing Oldham Road in Failsworth at about 11.20pm on Saturday when he was struck by a Kia Picanto.

In a statement, Mr Leary’s family said: “Wayne was a much loved son, brother, father and uncle.

“Earlier that day he had spent the afternoon with his daughter Amy, who is very keen on football, watching Manchester United play Chelsea.

“Amy turns 11 today (April 6) and is devastated to have lost her father.

“Wayne was an Oldham Athletic fan himself, and enthusiastic about keeping fit.

“He also enjoyed listening to music and had an active social life.

“He was very hard-working and will be sadly missed by family, friends and work colleagues.”

Mr Leary, who had spent the evening with his daughter Amy, crossed Oldham Road on his own to get the number of a local takeaway, leaving Amy on the pavement on the other side of the road.

As he was crossing the road back towards her, he was in collision with the car just yards from where his daughter was standing.

The driver of the vehicle failed to stop at the scene.

Wayne was taken to the Royal Oldham Hospital suffering from serious head injuries and transferred to Salford Royal but died on Sunday.

Police have arrested a 38-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and he remains in police custody.

Traffic officers are appealing for any witnesses to contact them on 0161-856 8473.