Lord of the Dance
Irish community support family of Kilkenny construction worker killed on M1 as investigation into his death continues
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Irish community support family of Kilkenny construction worker killed on M1 as investigation into his death continues

London's Irish community is rallying behind a Luton family following the sudden and tragic death of construction worker Robert English earlier this month. 

Mr English, a father-of-three, was killed on the M1 motorway near Northampton on October 10.

The 47-year-old, originally from Kilkenny, was pronounced dead at the scene following the motorway collision involving a lorry.

The collision happened at around 9am within a section of road works on the northbound carriageway, just north of junction 16, where the Irishman had been working.

As news of his death spread over the last two weeks, the community in London has offered their support to his wife Caroline Kelly English, originally from Co. Kerry, and the couple's three daughters, aged 13,9 and five.

On Friday it was announced that proceeds from the auction at the annual Kerry Association London (KAL) dinner, which was attended by over 360 people, will be donated to the family.

Over £6,000 was raised on the night following the sale of a pair of football boots donated by Kerry footballer Colm ' the Gooch' Cooper and a signed jersey from former rugby international Keith Woods.

Danny O'Sullivan, KAL Chairman, said the association would continue to be supportive of the family over the coming year through various events and donations.

"We'll be supportive of that over the next 12 months," he added.

Northhamptonshire Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are continuing to investigate Mr  English's death.

A spokesperson for Northamptonshire Police told The Irish Post that Northamptonshire Police Collision Investigation Unit were conducting an investigation into the incident.

She added that the HSE were aware of the death and were also liaising with the police.

Mr English was working for a drainage contractor subcontracted by the Costain/Galliford Try joint venture, as part of the £65million smart motorway project.

Witnesses, or anyone with information about the collision which led to the death of Mr English, are asked to contact the Northamptonshire Police Collision Investigation Unit on 101 or call the Drivewatch Hotline on 0800 174615.