THE driver of a car that was overtaken by a motorist who then crashed and died, may have vital information about the accident, police say.

Officers are trying to determine how the collision that killed 22-year-old Adam Hawkins happened.

And they are appealing to the driver of a dark coloured estate overtaken by the young rugby player, to come forward.

Mr Hawkins, , father to five-year-old India, and described by his family as 'a gentle giant', died while driving to his 23rd birthday celebrations when his car ploughed into the side of the Halfway Inn, near Aylesbeare, East Devon, on Saturday, December 20. The crash occurred at about 7pm.

Mr Hawkins had driven from the direction of West Hill towards the Halfway House and the A3052.

Police are anxious to speak to the driver of a dark coloured estate or MPV which was overtaken by Adam's silver Peugeot and another vehicle just before the incident.

It is believed that the driver of the dark coloured car lives in East Devon.

Investigators stress that the occupants of this car are, potentially, important witnesses and are appealing for them to give their accounts to help to piece together how the crash happened.

Officers have been making house to house inquiries in the area.

Adam, of Lincoln Close, Feniton, was a digger driver for City Plant Devon Ltd.

He was taken to hospital after the crash and was on a life support machine but died in hospital.

Mr Hawkins' funeral will take place at Otterton Church tomorrow at 11am and it will be followed by a small service at Exeter Crematorium at 13.15pm.

Further tributes have been made by Mr Hawkins family, who say all are welcome to his funeral.

They read: "A loving son of Sue and Michael, grandson of Olive and father to India, that will be greatly missed, that passed away on Sunday, December 21, leaving a big space in our lives."

"One of the best sons, grandsons and father a Mum and Dad, Nan and daughter could ask for."

"Adam was a much loved brother and brother-in-law who will be very sorely missed by Lee and Mark and sister-in-law Sarah."

"He was our best friend and a brother who would bring a smile to all of us. We had many good times. Love you for all time, never forgotten. Love you big man."

"He will be missed by his nephews and nieces Ashley, Emily, Corey, Rhys, Jess, Lily and Charley."

"Just to say we love you and miss you Uncle Mongo —you are the best xxx."

Anyone with any information is asked to call the police on 08452 777444 quoting 935 of the 20/12/08.