By Annabal Bagdi
Tributes have been paid to a Midland dad killed in a horror two-car smash. Ashley Aldridge was behind the wheel of a Vauxhall Corsa when it collided with an orange BMW convertible car just before 6.15pm on Friday, June 27. The dad-of-two, who worked for Pukka Pies and was from Syston, Leicester, could not be saved and died from his injuries. The 37-year-old’s family have now paid tribute to him, describing the dad as ‘a beacon of support for many’. A tribute read: “Ashley was a beloved son, brother, and father, cherished by everyone who knew him. “His children were his world, and he loved them dearly. “My brother, known affectionately as ‘Cap Ash’ for his constant cap wearing, was a beacon of support for many. READ MORE: Queen Elizabeth’s surprising nickname used by inner circle – and it’s not Lilibet “He was always there for a chat or a piece of advice, and no one ever had a bad word to say about him. “Ash was also a valued colleague at Pukka Pies, known for his hard work and dedication. “His passing has deeply affected his colleagues, and the workplace will never be the same without him. “He had been there for 21 years, climbing the ranks and earning the respect of all. “The tragic loss of my brother is something we will never comprehend as a family. “We are heartbroken and devastated, and the grief will linger for the rest of our lives. “His two children are left without a father who they loved so very much and their world has been shattered, but we are a strong family unit, and we will support each other through this difficult time.” Leicestershire Police said a teenage girl who was travelling in the Corsa was taken to hospital and has since been discharged. Two men have since been arrested in connection with the collision, which took place on the A607 at Frisby on the Wreake. A 33-year-old and a 25-year-old were arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous and drink-driving. Both have been released under investigation while enquiries continue, police confirmed. The force added: “The investigation remains ongoing.” Mr Aldridge’s friends also paid tribute to him, describing him as ‘the life of the party’. They said: “Ash, you were always the life of the party—first to the bar, last to leave, and absolutely allergic to saying no to a night out. “You were always there, unless, of course, it was your turn to buy a round. “We didn’t see each other as often as we should have, but whenever we did, it felt like no time had passed. “We would laugh, have fun, and engage in the kind of banter that made your cheeks hurt. “It’s hard to believe you’re gone. There’s now a massive Ash-shaped hole in the group, and an eerie quiet where your laugh used to echo (usually louder than the music). “The sky might have gained a new star, but we definitely lost our brightest spark.” They went on: “You’ll always be missed, forever remembered, and never replaced. “Rest easy, legend. We’ll be raising a glass (or five) in your honour. To Ash!” Anyone with any information, who has not yet spoken to police, can report online at www.leics.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 594 of June 27. Don’t miss the biggest and breaking stories by signing up to the BirminghamLive newsletter here .