The widow of Nick Kneale, who died in a collision on the A34 on Sunday, has released a tribute to him.

Mr Kneale, 44, from Oxford, was in a Ford Focus which collided with a Renault lorry parked in a layby, on the northbound carriageway just past the Kidlington on-slip road.

Tania Batelli-Kneale said: “Nick was a wonderful and devoted husband, father, friend and teacher.

“His legacy lies in his children, who were the centre of his world, and in the example he set through his sense of duty.

“We will miss deeply his abundant kindness, wise counsel and keen wit.”

Fire chiefs believe diesel from a forklift truck on the back of the lorry spilled on to the car causing it to catch fire with Mr Kneale still inside.

Mr Kneale worked as a warden at St Clare’s International College, in Oxford, and was also a lecturer in English Literature.

College principal Paula Holloway said: “Nick was a highly respected member of our community.

“Everyone who knew him or worked with him will miss him greatly.

“As a community we are immensely saddened by what has happened.”

Mr Kneale also played an important role at Summertown Stars Football Club, where his son plays.

Chairman Simon Priscott said: “Summertown Stars are deeply saddened to have lost their close friend. He was a generous and caring man who had undertaken the role of child welfare officer with immense commitment, dedication and professionalism.

“A great many of us are lucky enough to have known Nick as a friend and his companionship and support will be greatly missed.

“Our sincerest sympathies go out to his wonderful family who have our support now and for always.”

Police said the lorry driver was asleep in the cab at the time of the collision and the car was already on fire when a police car arrived to investigate.

The back of the lorry also caught fire, although the lorry driver was not injured and did not need hospital treatment.