'Loving daddy' killed after car left the road

The family of a man killed in a two-vehicle crash have paid tribute to "a devoted son, a caring brother, a loving daddy, and a loyal friend".

Michael George Knowlson died at the scene of the collision on the A371 in Dinder, between Shepton Mallet and Wells in Somerset, at 15:00 GMT on 18 February.

The 34-year-old's VW Golf left the road and ended up in a nearby field. Avon and Somerset Police said it was continuing to investigate the incident.

His funeral will be held at St Cuthbert's Church in Wells on 20 March, followed by a private burial at Wells Cemetery.

In a tribute, his family said: "Michael was so much more than words can capture - a devoted son, a caring brother, a loving daddy, and a loyal friend.

"His presence brought warmth, laughter, and comfort, and his absence leaves a silence in our lives and a hole in our hearts that will never truly be filled.

"As a father, Michael's love was deep and unconditional. His son was his world, and everything he did was guided by his love for Mason.

"As a son and brother, he gave kindness and his opinion freely, always ready with support, humour, or simply a listening ear.

"As a friend, he was genuine, dependable, and loved wholeheartedly — someone you could count on no matter what and never let you down."

The family said though his life was "heartbreakingly short", the impact he left behind was "immeasurable".

"He lives on in the memories, photos and stories we hold, the love he gave, and the lives he touched so deeply," they continued.

"He will be carried forward in every story told, every smile remembered, and every moment of love shared. Forever 34, forever loved, and never forgotten.

"We are utterly heartbroken and struggling to come to terms with the loss of Michael and the immense impact he had on our lives, his absence has left a hole in our lives that can never be filled, we ask you to respect our privacy at this time and let us grief in peace."

A memorial football match will be held in his honour at Strode College Sports Centre on 8 March.

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