TRIBUTES have been pouring in following the death of Evesham coach operator Graham Spring, aged 56, who was one of six people killed in last weekend's horrific coach crash on the M25.

Work at the family run company, WR Spring, based in Lime Street, in Bengeworth, and in Hinton-on-the-Green, was continuing this week. Mr Spring's sister, Pam, said the family was doing its best to cope with the tragedy. "We will take it one day at a time," she said.

Mr Spring is survived by his wife, Gillian, and two sons Martyn, aged 19, and Michael, 22.

Graham's father William, known as Roy, who founded the company 54 years ago, is being looked after by family and friends, amid fears for his health following a stroke earlier this year.

Pam said coach operators from as far away as Essex had contacted the family to express their condolences. "They have all offered help and support, they have been marvellous." She added that this demonstrated how well liked Mr Spring was within the coaching industry.

"He was always very helpful, if he was out on the road and saw somebody in trouble he was always ready to stop, roll up his sleeves and help."

Tributes and offers of help also flooded in from suppliers, former employees and from some of the thousands of local people Mr Spring had befriended in the course of his work.

"He took so many people on holidays and trips and got to know a lot of them well," she said. "He was devoted to his job and he loved what he did," said Pam.

Worcestershire County Council Network manager Peter Roberts said the Spring family had enjoyed a successful relationship with the council for many years. "We are very sad to hear this terrible news," he said. "We have always had an awful lot of respect for Mr Spring's company and enjoyed a very good relationship with them."

The family and workers at the Hinton-on-the-Green depot also received a visit from MP Michael Spicer.

Pam added that her family had been touched by the response of so many people. "I would like to thank all the people who have offered their condolences and help in this difficult time," she said.

"My own tribute to my brother is that he was the kindest man I know and he would help anybody," she added.

Mr Spring's funeral will be held on Tuesday at St Peter's Church in Bengeworth at 2pm. This will be followed by a burial at Waterside and afterwards at Avon Social Club. The family has requested that mourners may either give flowers or make donations to the County Air Ambulance. As a poignant final tribute to Mr Spring, his coffin will be carried to church in one of his company's coaches.