Tributes have been paid to a ‘devoted’ dad-of-six and well-known community rugby figure killed in a horror crash on the M6.
Cliff Tamou, from Wigan, had been driving a lorry on the M6 in Staffordshire when it broke down last Thursday (February 27).
The 58-year-old was outside of the vehicle when a collision involving a Toyota Avensis car took place, between junctions 16 and 15 of the M6 southbound. Tragically, Cliff suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash.
The New Zealand-born granddad-of-five was a well known figure in women’s rugby league around Greater Manchester, having coached and refereed. His daughter, Sarina Tamou, plays for Salford Red Devils.
In a statement issued through Staffordshire Police, Cliff’s family said: “Cliff Tamou, 58, who moved to the UK over 30 years ago from New Zealand and settled in the Wigan area, was a devoted husband, father to six children and five grandchildren.
“He was a lorry driver for many years and loved playing, refereeing and coaching rugby. The family have asked for their privacy to be respected in this very sad time.”
The Toyota driver, a 22-year-old man from Dudley, West Midlands, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
Rugby league teams including Salford Red Devils and Leigh Miners Rangers have been among those paying tribute to Cliff.
A spokesperson for Salford Red Devils Women wrote on X: “All at Salford Red Devils were saddened to hear of Cliff Tamou’s passing.
“A well-respected referee, Cliff was an avid supporter of our women’s side, with his daughter, Sarina a big part of our team. The club sends their love and support to his family at such a difficult time.”
A Leigh Miners Rangers RL spokesperson said: “Leigh Miners Rangers are saddened to hear of the passing of Cliff Tamou.
“Cliff was highly respected across the game both as a referee and coach. Cliff coached the ladies team in 2015 and 2016, and under Cliff’s leadership the team reached the Challenge Cup final and lifted the Plate Trophy in 2016.
“Cliff was also a great supporter of the ladies masters team and regularly refereed their games.
“Cliff was a wonderful gentleman, who will be missed by all that knew him, on the field, he was well liked by players, coaches and spectators, due mainly to the way he refereed the games, the clarity of his decisions was clearly heard by everyone on the pitch.
“Once the game had finished, Cliff was always happy to discuss any aspect of our great game over a pint. We send our love and prayers to Cliff’s family, friends and colleagues are in our thoughts at this difficult time.”
We are saddened to learn about the passing of our friend Cliff Tamou. He was a true stalwart of the Community Game in the North West, immensely respected by all.
We extend our condolences to Cliff’s family and the wider RL community who were lucky enough to have known him RIP pic.twitter.com/3TDTMn0U3F
— St Helens RLRS (@StHelensRLRS) March 3, 2025
Cliff was working as a lorry driver for SSO Logistics, in St Helens, at the time of the tragic collision. The company has set up a GoFundMe page to support his family.
A post on the page says: “We were heartbroken to learn of the tragic accident that claimed the life of Cliff Tamou, a valued employee at SSO Logistics.
“He was universally liked and well-respected, not only within our team but also throughout the wider community as a dedicated rugby league referee and coach.
“Cliff leaves behind a loving wife and children. To support his family during this incredibly difficult time, we are raising funds to provide comfort and assistance.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Cliff’s family, friends, and colleagues. Together, we can show our love and support for those he cherished most.”
Staffordshire Police says Cliff’s family is being supported by specially-trained officers.
The Toyota driver was taken to hospital with leg and facial injuries which are not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening.
Police are urging any witnesses, or anyone with relevant dashcam footage, to come forward. Information can be passed on to Staffordshire Police on 101 or online, quoting incident 783 of February 27, or by emailing ciu@staffordshire.police.uk
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