TRIBUTES have been paid to a retired couple 'who gave so much to their community' after they died following a crash on the A66 earlier this week.

Martin Gareth Evans and his wife Patricia Mary Evans of High Brigham, near Cockermouth, were formally identified earlier this afternoon February, 17 following their death in a crash on the A66 near Workington on Monday, February 13 .

Mr Evans worked as an industrial chemist at Sellafield, with wife Pat working as a popular maths teacher at Newlands School in Workington and laterly Stainburn School in the town.

The couple were both long term members of St John's Church in Workington, were they were said to be integral to the bellringing, choir and music groups at the church.

The family have said that they will be 'remembered and sadly missed' by their children, family and entire community.

The family of Gareth and Pat made the following tribute: "Retired couple Pat and Gareth lived in Brigham for over 40 years, and enjoyed many happy hours on the Lake District fells. Much loved by their family, friends and all that knew them, they gave so much to the community throughout their lives.

"Gareth worked as an industrial chemist at Sellafield, and Pat taught maths, first at Newlands and later at Stainburn School.

"They were long term members of St. John's Church, Workington and were integral to bellringing, choirs and music groups, both in the local area and further afield.

"They will be remembered and sadly missed by their children, family and the entire community."

READ MORE: Police appeal after two people die in A66 crash

The collision occurred on the A66, between the Bridgefoot roundabout and Stainburn roundabout, near Workington at 5.53pm on Monday, February 13.

Officers are continuing to appeal for anyone who witnessed the collision or has relevant dashcam footage to get in touch.

Anyone with information can report via email to SCIU@CUMBRIA.POLICE.UK - referring to incident 208 of February 13. You can also report online via www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it or call 101.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.