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Phil Bardsley devastated after road death of grandfather

Former Manchester United defender Phil Bardsley and wife Tanya. Credit: Manchester Evening News.

Friends of Salford-born footballer Phil Bardsley say he's is ‘inconsolable’ after the death of his beloved grandfather in a car crash,

The former Manchester United defender is being comforted by family after the news that John Albert Lancaster, 77, from Salford, was involved in a three-vehicle collision on Tuesday morning.

Phil’s family have paid emotional tribute to the ‘loving husband, father and grandfather’.

And Phil’s wife Tanya added to the tributes, saying: “He was the loveliest man, a joy to be around and will be greatly missed.

“If love could have saved him he would never have died.”

John was father to five daughters, a grandfather to 12 and a great-grandfather of 12 with another on the way, and partner to Marjorie for 20 years.

Phil and Tanya, who stars on The Real Housewives of Cheshire, released a photo of John taken on the couple’s wedding day in Peckforton, Cheshire, in 2014.

Police are appealing for witnesses after Mr Lancaster died in the road crash. Credit: Manchester Evening News.

The family released a statement earlier today saying: “He was a loving husband to the late Maureen and father to five daughters, Julie, Janette, Christina, Paula and Trisha.

“We would also like to thank the midwife who administered CPR at the scene.

“He was a loving grandfather, great grandfather and a great friend to many. He will be sadly missed by all. Love always and forever.”

Greater Manchester Police have launched an investigation into the crash and are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the incident involving two Nissan Primeras and a Vauxhall Movano, which occurred just after 6.30am on Tuesday morning.

“The family and friends of John have been left devastated by this tragic loss.

"My thoughts are with his family and we have specially trained officers supporting them at this difficult time.

“We are carrying out a thorough investigation to establish the full facts around what has happened.“If anyone witnessed the collision, or if you have any information that may assist our investigation, please contact officers at the Serious Collision Investigation Unit. “We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have dash cam footage of the incident.”

– PC Seamus Toal, of Greater Manchester Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit
  • Any witnesses with information should call police on 0161 856 4741.