The victim was named by police as 76-year-old Reginald Arthur Plummer.

He died in hospital shortly after being hit by a Toyota car on Wednesday evening in Station Road, Billingham.

Cleveland Police have paid tribute to the 76-year-old on behalf of family members who say he will be sadly missed.

The grandfather of six, from Billingham, was rushed to the University Hospital of North Tees, after the incident, at around 6.15pm, but died overnight.

Mr Plummer leaves behind three children, Anthony, Julie and Beverley and two sisters, Jean and Joan.

Police said the collision happened after the driver of a Toyota car, travelling south along the road, lost control of the vehicle as it went over the level crossing and mounted the footpath.

Mr Plummer was an accomplished amateur boxer who fought over 100 fights and lost only ten. He became a pro at the age of eighteen and fought five fights as a pro before retiring on medical advice. He was a valued member of Billingham Synthonia boxing club.

His wife, June, died in 2006.

Passers-by, along with crews from Stockton Fire Station and other emergency services, made desperate attempts to revive Mr Plummer at the scene, close to Conifer Crescent, on Wednesday evening.

Cleveland Police have made no charges in relation to the death and are still making enquiries.

See tomorrow's Mail for the full story.