The family of an 89-year-old man, who was killed with a mother and toddler in a tragic car crash, paid tribute to him.

Ernest Wray died last Tuesday when his green Range Rover crashed into Jackie Bloomer, 30, and her 18-month-old son Jayden in Accrington, Lancashire.

Jayden and the pensioner died that day but Mrs Bloomer, a nursery nurse, clung to life until Friday night when she died in hospital with her husband Chris at her bedside.

Mrs Bloomer was walking to collect six-year-old son Declan from school at the time of the crash.

It is thought Mr Wray fell ill at the wheel as his car careered off the road on Water Street.

His family issued a statement in tribute to his life and sending their love and prayers to Mrs Bloomer’s family.

It said: “The family of the late Ernest Wray, his wife Ann and two daughters Caroline and Gillian wish to convey their deepest sympathy to the family of Jayden and Jackie Bloomer, who lost their lives in the tragic events of February 9th 2010.

“We can only imagine the heartbreak and devastation to their family, and in our own sorrow and grief we send our love and prayers.

“Dad was a devoted Christian, family man, quiet, caring gentleman and his sudden death, and particularly the tragic circumstances, is devastating.

“We would like to thank the police, all the emergency services involved and all at Royal Blackburn Hospital. We also very much appreciate all the messages of sympathy we have received.”

A double funeral for Mrs Bloomer and her son will be held at 11am on Friday at St James Church.

It will be followed by a private cremation service.