A family has paid an emotional tribute to a promising young junior doctor who died in a car crash after finishing a night shift.

Jyothis Manalayil from Bolton, died at the age of just 28 following a collision on Garstang Road (A586), Larbreck, on Friday, June 10.

He had been driving a Kia Ceed car when it was involved in a collision with a Range Rover.

His family described him as a loving son.

In a statement his family said: “Jyothis Manalayil (Jyo) was a promising young junior doctor who tragically lost his life in a car accident.

“He was travelling from Lancaster Royal Infirmary Hospital after his night shift to Royal Victoria Hospital Blackpool to do a teaching section to medical students.

“Jyothis was a loving son to his mom and dad and an angel guardian to his younger brother.

“He was an unusually kind and an exceptionally bright person that dedicated his life to caring for others. He continued to show immense potential as a doctor when he graduated in 2017 and he excelled in his academic and clinical career.

“He managed to pass his primary Fellowship of the Royal College of Anaesthetists (FRCA) exams on his first try just when he was beginning his career as a trainee in anaesthetics, proving his dedication to keeping his skills up to date, in order to best treat patients.

“He was an ideal colleague to work with during our busy hospital shifts. He was incredibly hard-working and made sure his team was well looked after during stressful times. Jyo worked for nearly two years on the ICU at Salford Royal (and during the first wave of the Covid pandemic) and was a well-loved, caring, supportive member of staff; he became a valued member of the ICU family here at Salford.

“Jyo had a passion for mental health awareness in addition to improving equality and diversity in the NHS workplace. He was compassionate, dedicated and always strived for the best in his career as a trainee anaesthetist. He always went the extra mile for his patients whether it was organising their dental appointments or just making them a cup of tea and sharing his terrible jokes.

“Jyo was ambitious about his career and continued to excel in his work. He was particularly passionate about teaching, including directing on advanced life support courses, delivering teaching on delirium and supporting medical students. He cared about his colleagues deeply and went out of his way to make you feel loved, valued and supported. He always had time to listen to his colleagues concerns and worries and was always ready to help those who were struggling.

“His kind words and actions always provided comfort to those in pain. He was also loved by his patients who loved his calm and caring presence. He was entirely devoted to treating his patients with respect and dignity without prejudice or discrimination. He always took the time to understand his patient’s needs and values and was a powerful advocate for them. His selfless love and loyalty to his patients and colleagues helped many through the most difficult of times.

“Jyo, you will truly be missed by the many who were blessed to know you. Your presence brought a smile to those around you and your selflessness and kindness made those who were lucky to come into contact with you love you and adore you. May you rest in peace Jyo.”