FRIENDS of a popular builder killed in a car accident early yesterday have paid tribute to a "cracking lad".

Scott Grimshaw, 28, of Scott Street, Burnley, was killed in a head-on collision when his Vauxhall Astra collided with a Honda Civic driven by Accrington man Aftab Ali.

Mr Grimshaw's passenger, 18-year-old Rosie Robinson, also of Scott Street, received facial injuries and will undergo plastic surgery later today at Burnley General Hospital.

Workmates and friends gathered at George VI pub, Padiham Road, last night in remembrance of his short but eventful life.

Scott, who worked for First Construction, loved fishing and went every Friday night after meeting his friends in the pub.

The former Towneley High School pupil also attended Burnley College where he learnt his trade as a builder and plasterer.

His best friend and Rosie's father, Ricardo Robinson, 43, said: "There aren't enough words to describe how much Scott will be missed. He crammed what he could into life. He loved life and people. He had so many friends because he was such a sincere person, you can't say that about a lot of people but when Scott said something you knew that he meant it.

"He was so jolly, always happy and a pleasure to be around - a cracking lad. He was my best friend but more like a brother to me and I'll never forget him."

Paul Ross, his supervisor at First Construction, also paid tribute. He said: "He worked for me for about four years and he made a real impression. He was a really good worker, always keen to crack on.

"He was friends with everybody and will be greatly missed."

Mr Ali received leg, back and knee injuries and was also due to undergo an operation.

Police, fire crews and paramedics were called to the scene of the accident on Accrington Road, Burnley, near the junction with the M65 at about 1.20am yesterday.

Police said the Astra was travelling towards Accrington when the crash happened. Mr Grimshaw was trapped in the car and, although firefighters battled for 15 minutes to free him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police are appealing for witnesses to call them on 01282 472542.