Linslade man named as one of the victims of fatal Bedford crash
He was soon to be a grandfather.
Last updated 3rd Nov 2020
A Linslade man who was soon to be a grandfather has been named as one of the victims in a fatal crash in Bedford.
Mark Varney, aged 65, of Kendal Gardens, Linslade, and John Manning, aged 66, of Ashburnham Road, Bedford, were involved in a collision with a car in Bromham Road just after midday on Saturday (31 October).
Emergency services attended, but both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
A 32 year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving in connection with the incident.
He has since been released under investigation.
The families of the victims have paid tribute to their loved ones and have shared their thoughts with the other family involved.
In a statement, Mr Varney’s family said:
"As a family, we are truly devastated to have him ripped from us like this, so suddenly and so tragically.
"Mark was a much-loved father, son, brother, and was soon to be a grandfather.
"He was a kind and loving family man, who has been a huge support to his widowed mother in recent years and was so excited to meet his first grandchild in a few weeks’ time."
Mr Manning’s family have also released a statement and said:
"Our wonderful dad was a charitable and big-hearted man.
"He was a loving father, uncle, brother and friend, but mostly a very proud and doting grandpa.
"Thank you to those who attended the scene for your kindness - it has brought a great comfort to our family."
Officers have said enquiries into the incident are ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to visit the online reporting centre or call 101 quoting Operation Stardust.