THE family of a man who died from injuries sustained after he was involved in a collision with a taxi in Darlington have paid tribute to ‘a unique person’.

Stevie Graham, 32, a photographer and chef, died on Friday - almost a week after he was hit by a taxi while crossing the road at the junction of Grange Road and Victoria Road on Sunday, February 2, at 12.30am.

In a statement, his parents, Barry and Stef, brothers Joe, Michael and David, and his sister Katie, said: “Stevie was an exceptionally talented photographer and vibrant chef; it is through these means he earned a fun, exciting and prosperous living which took him all over the globe.

“Stevie touched many peoples' hearts and fitted more adventures into his 32 years than most people would in many lifetimes. He was a unique person in that he could light up a hall full of people with few words as he had a huge presence wherever he went.

“He was so very kind and thoughtful. His eight nieces and nephews loved him dearly because of his cheeky, joyful and energetic persona.”

Mr Graham, who lived in Sri Lanka, where he often carried out charity work, also leaves his girlfriend, Minoli.

His funeral will take place on Friday, February 14, at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Alnwick, at noon. The service will be followed by a celebration of his life at The Red Lion, in Alnmouth.

Police have appealed for any witnesses to the collision to contact Durham Police on 0191-375-2159.