Legton Zulu was a professional HGV driver for more than 15 years and also served as a deacon in Forward in Faith Ministries International

A lorry driver who died in a crash on the M25 was a "proud" father-of-three and loving husband, his family has said.

Legton Zulu was involved in a collision with another lorry close to junction 27 on the anti-clockwise carriageway of the motorway near Epping in Essex at about 04:20 BST on 16 June.

The 39-year-old, who was from Kettering in Northamptonshire, died at the scene despite the efforts of emergency services.

"He fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith," said his family, in a statement.

"His legacy of love, faith and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him."

The collision happened while emergency services were also responding to a separate lorry fire on the M25 between junction 27 and junction 26 near Waltham Abbey.

Zulu's family said he had been a professional HGV driver for more than 15 years and had also served as a deacon in Forward in Faith Ministries International.

He was a "faithful servant of God and respected member of his community", and left behind three sons aged nine, six and four.

"Legton was a man who genuinely loved people. He was kind, generous and always willing to help others.

"He touched many lives through his friendships, his service, and his passion for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ."

Essex Police appealed for anyone who witnessed the collision, had information or dashcam footage to contact the force.

Do you have a story suggestion for Essex? Contact us below.

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, external, Instagram, external and X, external.