Following the road traffic accident near Frankley Services on the M5 early Saturday morning (24th March) involving a Fowler Welch articulated goods vehicle and a PSV, the Fowler Welch senior team has released the following statement.
"It was with great sadness that we reported at the weekend on the death of one of our drivers following a road traffic accident on the M5 southbound carriageway early Saturday morning, 24th March.
"Today, we can name the driver involved as William 'Bill' Mapstone, who was 65 and due to turn 66 this week.
"We would like to send our most heartfelt condolences to the family of Bill, to his friends and to his many work colleagues. We are deeply saddened too, by the death of the passenger aboard the PSV. Our deepest sympathies go to his family. Our thoughts are also with those injured as a result of the accident, and we wish them all a speedy recovery.
"The circumstances surrounding the cause of the accident are still unclear, and we will do all we can to assist the police and accident investigators with their enquiries.
"The welfare of our employees is our highest priority. Drivers in particular are the pride of our workforce and are recruited only when the highest standards of driving competence and professionalism are met.
"Bill's death comes as a huge blow to us all at Fowler Welch.
"We will continue our close cooperation with the authorities as this investigation progresses, and will provide updates when appropriate."