THE friend of the family of Dylan Cecil was killed on the M5 yesterday (April 30) after visiting Burnham to put flowers on the young boy's grave.

Peter Thurlow, 42, from Kettering, was hit by a lorry just before 1am after he had travelled to Burnham for what would have been Dylan’s 6th birthday.

A message posted to a tribute page for the youngster, who died two years ago after falling into the sea from Burnham’s jetty, confirmed the man was a friend of the family, who Dylan used to call 'uncle'.

The message, posted by Dylan’s mother Rachel McCollum, said: “Dylan as you know me daddy aunty Lisa and uncle Pete came to Burnham to lay you flowers for your 6th birthday only for 50mins after midnight your uncle Pete was tragicly killed on the motorway in Burnham.

“Please take care of each other. Up their fly high. Love you both to the moon and back xxxxx”

The collision happened on the northbound section of the motorway between junctions 22 and 21 for Burnham and Weston, where Mr Thurlow was pronounced dead at the scene.

Hundreds of well-wishers have been posting their support on the tribute facebook page, with over 500 messages posted at time of writing.

User Joanne Davies posted on facebook saying: “How much tragedy can one family endure. Stay strong for each other.

"They have each other now until you’re all reunited.”

Lynsey Hutsby said: “Oh my gosh, that is tragic. Thinking of you at this even more difficult time.” Joanne Wright said: “Omg so sad thoughts are with your family. Life is so cruel at times. Xxxx”

Police are urging any witnesses to phone the collision investigation unit on 101.