A LOVING father killed in a hit-and-run has been named by police as 40-year-old Umran Hussain Sodagar.

Mr Sodagar suffered fatal injuries when he was hit by a Peugeot 208 in Manchester Road, Accrington, at around 5.50pm yesterday.

Two men, both 25 and from Accrington, have  been arrested on suspicion of causing Mr Sodagar's death by dangerous driving.

The family of Mr Sodagar, who lived in Accrington, have paid tribute to a loving son, husband and father.

In a statement they said: "Umran was a loving son, husband and father, who put smiles on many faces, touched many hearts and will forever remain in those hearts.

"He was a friend to many and was best known for his positive energy and was always bringing people together. He was a believer of love and a man of good morals and principles. He will truly be missed and his legacy will remain – in his own words – Lancashire's finest. Umran, we love you."

Police are appealing for information following the collision and are particularly keen to trace the driver of a black BMW car, believed to have witnessed the incident.

Officers said the Peugeot was later recovered in Lemonius Street.

Sgt Steve Hardman, of Lancashire Police’s Tactical Operations, said: “These are tragic circumstances and my thoughts are with Umran’s family and his friends at this sad and difficult time.

“While we have made two arrests, we are keen to speak to any witnesses who might have seen what happened.

“Of note, we are keen to trace the driver of a black BMW, who is thought to have seen the incident.

“I would encourage anyone with information to come forward as soon as possible.”

The Lancashire Telegraph understands Mr Sodagar was a part-time delivery driver working for the Monte Cristo Express takeaway, which is situated on Manchester Road.

Posting on their Facebook page, owners of the Monte Cristo Express on Manchester Road said: "It is with great sadness to say that last night we lost one of our Monte Cristo Family.

"Our friend who came to help us at weekends was hit by a speeding car on Manchester Road while going out on delivery.

"We send his wife, kids, family, and friends our deepest condolences and love, we can’t imagine what they are going through at this difficult time.

READ > Two arrested after Accrington man, 40, dies in hit-and-run

"We would also like to take this time to remind everyone to not drive under the influence and not to speed on busy residential roads.

"Especially on a road with customers/workers from various businesses and residents such as Manchester Road.

"It only takes a split second for somebody to lose a life.

"Thank you to everybody for their patience and understanding during this time."

Manchester Road was closed for four hours between Haworth Park and Oakhill Park, while emergency services dealt with the incident.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or email 2385@lancashire.pnn.police.uk quoting log 1232 of February 2