The widow of a motorist killed at a notorious Mid Sussex accident blackspot has paid tribute to her "lovely" husband.

Anthony Hursey, 47, of Coldwaltham Lane, Burgess Hill, was killed when his Jaguar collided with a Rover 214 on Hammer Hill, Staplefield, on Monday.

His wife Janet, struggling to come to terms with his death, said: "I do not know how the accident could have happened.

"He was not a reckless driver. He was always very careful. It's just so cruel."

Just six months ago 12-year-old Oscar Orpen, from Cuckfield, lost his life at the same spot.

He was travelling as a passenger in his brother's car when it collided with a police car.

Mr Hursey worked as an accountant for Virgin Atlantic, based in Crawley, where colleagues today also paid tribute.

Mrs Hursey, 45, added: "He was a lovely man with a great sense of humour. He was fascinated by naval history and had a library of books on the subjects.

"He wanted to join the Navy but could not because he was deaf in one ear but he was always talking about boats.

"He was a keen gardener and liked to make things with his hands. We both belonged to English Heritage and were interested in conservation.

"He was not really into cars. The Jaguar was just a luxury. We loved to travel and spent three-weeks in China earlier this year.

"That's what we used to do - plan holidays together."

The couple had no children but mother-in-law Barbara Davies described Mr Hursey as a family orientated man.

A spokesman for Virgin Atlantic, where Mr Hursey had worked for just over three years, said: "Everyone is shocked and saddened by Tony's death."

A family of four were injured in the head-on smash.

A man and a woman from Staplefield are being treated at Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath for serious leg, chest and arm injuries.

Two girls aged nine months and six, are being looked after by relatives.

Police today asked witnesses to contact the road traffic unit at Haywards Heath on 0845 6070999.