The family of a beloved and popular headteacher who was tragically killed in a car accident near Altrincham last night (April 20) have paid a heartfelt tribute to him.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed a male cyclist was hit by a car at around 6pm on Paddock Lane in Altrincham yesterday evening. He tragically died of his injuries, the force said.

He has now been confirmed to be 56-year-old Michael Mullins, who had been the headteacher of Stretford Grammar School in Trafford for 17 years. He lived with his family in Weaverham, Northwich.

Click here to get the biggest stories straight to your inbox in our Daily Newsletter

In a statement issued through Greater Manchester Police after his death, Michael’s family said: “Our loving Dad, husband, Brother-in-law, ‘Diddy’, Uncle, Son in law, passed away last night after being knocked off his bike.

“He was devoted to his family and our lives will never be the same. A gap has been left in our hearts and within his role as a headteacher of Stretford Grammar school.

“Our Dad gave us fantastic memories growing up including a trip getting lost at night around Washington D.C but it was in his role as a Grandad where he truly excelled.

“At this time the family request privacy. Our love and memories of Michael will know no limits. We will love him forever, to Saturn and beyond.”

Michael Mullins

In a letter to parents, Liz Baxter, deputy head teacher, confirmed the “sad and devastating news” that Mr Mullins “died in a road traffic accident on his way home from school.

“I know that this news will be a dreadful shock to you and your children, and, as a community built up so strongly over so many years by our dear friend and colleague, Michael, we will all support each other during this awful period,” she said.

“As a staff body, we have worked with Michael for many years and the relationships created can never be replaced.

“However, in his honour and as a mark of his tireless hard work for Stretford Grammar School, we will pull together to continue his legacy.”

GMP said the vehicle involved in the crash failed to stop but four people have since been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

In a full statement issued today, GMP said: “Our Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) is appealing for information after a cyclist has died in Trafford.

“Officers were called to Paddock Lane, at the junction with Warburton Lane and Dunham Road, Altrincham at around 6.10pm yesterday (20.04.26) following reports of a collision involving a cyclist and a car.

Paddock Lane in Partington(Image: Manchester Evening News)

“The car failed to stop however over the course of yesterday and today, officers have made four arrests in relation to this incident. Three men and one woman have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. All remain in custody for questioning.

“The cyclist, a man in his 50s, was treated at the scene however despite best efforts by emergency services, he sadly died. Our thoughts are with his family, who are being supported by specialist officers.

“If you have any information or dashcam footage of this incident which could assist the investigation, please contact SCIU on 0161 856 4741 quoting incident number 2771 of 20.04.26.

“Alternatively, you can call us on 101 or talk to us via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk. Information can also be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Paying tribute, Stretford and Urmston MP Andrew Western said: “I am shocked and truly saddened to hear the devastating news of Mr Mullins’ tragic death. My thoughts and condolences go out to the staff and students at Stretford Grammar, and above all to Michael’s family and friends.

“Michael was a lovely man and in the conversations we had it was clear that the needs of the children in his care were always at the heart of everything he did. His loss will be felt deeply by all who knew him, here in the Stretford community and beyond.”