The two men who died on the M1 near Garston yesterday have been named as Alan Trethewey and Spencer Bell.

Police were called to the motorway yesterday after reports of a man, later identified as Mr Trethewey, falling from a bridge onto the M1.

Following the incident a number of drivers stopped to help the 67-year-old man of Bucknalls Lane, Garston, including Spencer Bell who left his car and ventured onto the motorway.

Mr Bell, 71, from Bushey, was then struck by a vehicle in the attempt.

Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.

Today Mr Bell’s family paid tribute to him saying: “Spencer was the most loving, funny and generous person. Everyone who knew him loved his quick wit and kindness. We cannot imagine life without him, he always had a smile on his face and loved life.

“Knowing he died in such a selfless way is no comfort. But we would not have expected anything else of him. He loved and was loved dearly, by his wife Wendy, his three children, sons in laws, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.”