Tributes have been paid to the victim of a ‘devastating’ fatal car crash in Deptford, as the driver arrested at the scene is bailed by police.

Paul Weidlich, 54, died in hospital after being hit by a grey VW Golf in Creek Road at around 5.30pm on Saturday.

The driver, a 31-year-old man, was arrested by police at the scene and held in custody for questioning, but later bailed until a date in late September.

Friends of Mr Weidlich, who worked at Transport for London, have expressed their sadness at the news of his death.

Michel Van Oordt had known Mr Weidlich for over 20 years.

He told News Shopper: “Paul’s dry wit was in my eyes the epitome of British humour and he was far more than a great friend.

“He was a trusted ally that stood by you through thick and thin and always had your back, no matter the circumstances.

“He was, in short, my mate and I will miss him dearly.”

Another friend, Anna Obuchowska, said she was “devastated by the news”.

“He was indeed a great friend and a very generous man,” she said.

“Paul was the first Englishman I met after I arrived in London over 10 years ago and he's always been very helpful and supportive to me and everyone he knew.”

Chloe Lowden, who works at the Spanish Galleon pub in Greenwich where Mr Weidlich was a regular, paid tribute to a “wonderful friend”.

She said: “You will be forever in our thoughts Paul, the laughs, debates, decisions, advice and overall wonderful memories we share.

“A diet wine and a glass of tap water will be on the menu tonight just as you would like it.”

News Shopper:

The aftermath of the crash in Creek Road. Picture (c.) Twitter.

Passerby Callum, 31, said he drove past the wreckage of the car and the driver nearby whilst paramedics battled to save the victim’s life.

He told News Shopper: “We could see the person who was laying on the floor by the ambulance.

“I think they [the paramedics] were just trying to fight to save the guy’s life.”

He added: “It just looked devastating.”