The man who died after being hit by a van in Market Street last week has been named by Leicestershire Police.

John Willars (pictured below) was taken to hospital following the collision which happened shortly before 6am last Thursday.

Sadly, the 81-year-old from Ashby, passed away in hospital that afternoon.

An investigation was launched following the incident and enquiries remain ongoing.

John Willars, who sadly died in last week's Market Street incident

No arrests have been made. 

In tribute to John, his family have released the following statement: "John was a much-loved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

"He was known by many people in the local area and will be dearly missed by all those who knew him.

"Our hearts are broken by what has happened and we must now try to come to terms with his loss, so we can begin to grieve."

Ashby fire station also paid its respects and posted online, saying: "After learning of the death of a former colleague John Willars last week, our flag has been flying at half mast as a mark of respect.

"All of our crew are deeply saddened to learn of Johns sudden and untimely passing and offer our condolences to John's family, friends and former colleagues at this sad time.

"John served as a Firefighter at Ashby Fire Station from 1967 until retirement in 1996. John was awarded the Queens Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in 1987."