Epping: Family tribute to Leslie Welland who, sadly, died following a collision

The family of a “beloved” family man who died following a collision in Epping have paid tribute, adding their “world will never be the same”.

Leslie Albert Thomas Welland, 79, from Barton Seagrave, Northants was described by his family as their “beloved husband, dad, brother, granddad, great-granddad, uncle and friend” and explained how “our world will never be the same following his loss.”

Les, as he was known to family and friends and who was born in Hackney, East London, died following a collision that occurred in Poplar Row, Theydon Bois, just after 10.15pm on Sunday 12 March when he had been visiting his daughter.

Les was walking his dog at the time of the collision.

His family added that Les “was known in his village by his fellow dog walkers and was devoted to his ever-loyal dog, Chico, who also lost his life.

“We appreciate all the messages of condolence and support from friends, family and the local community. He may be gone but will never be forgotten.”

Mr Welland’s family went on to thank the ambulance and air ambulance crews for their attempts to save him.

We continue to appeal for witnesses and dash cam footage to the serious collision that occurred in Poplar Row, Theydon Bois, just after 10.15pm on Sunday 12 March involving a Smart car and Mr Welland who, sadly, died at the scene.

The driver, a 20-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

You can let us know by submitting a report online or by using our Live Chat service.

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Alternatively you can call us on 101.

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Please quote incident 1277 of 12 March when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.