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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Lucy Marshall & Matthew Dresch

Rugby club says teens killed in horror crash were 'nicest lads you could find'

A rugby club has paid tribute to two teenage players who died in a horrific car crash.

Aaron Bell and Loui Banks lost their lives in a smash near the town of Bedale, in North Yorkshire, at around 11pm on Friday.

The crash also claimed the life of another teenage passenger, while an 18-year-old driver is in hospital with serious injuries

The three teens who passed away were all pupils at Bedale High School, North Yorkshire Live reports.

Thousands of tributes have poured in for the youngsters - one of whom was aged 17 while the other two were 18.

Louis has been described by a friend as "amazing", while Aaron was a "jolly and happy lad" with a "contagious laugh".

Both teens were keen sports players.

Aaron used to play football at North Yorkshire Soccer Academy and the pair played rugby at Wensleydale RUFC.

The rugby club have shared a tribute to their former players, saying: "Yesterday we heard the devastating news that two of our own, Aaron Bell and Louis Banks had died in a car accident.

"Both lads started playing at Wensleydale aged 7 and last season Aaron became a regular in the senior squad scoring tries for fun for both the 1st and 2nd team.

"You couldn’t find nicer lads than these two and were an absolute pleasure to coach.

The fatal crash took place at around 11pm on Friday (Wensleydale RUFC)

"You will both be sorely missed and always a part of our club. Condolences to Aaron and Louis families, friends and teammates from everyone at WRUFC."

A number of other Yorkshire rugby clubs and friends commented on the post shared across social media.

Mike Dale said: "Awful news. Sending love and thoughts to the families and all at Wensleydale RUFC from all at Southport RFC."

Ossett Rugby wrote: "Awful news. Sending love and thoughts to the families and all at Wensleydale RUFC from all at Ossett RUFC."

Aaron Bell (pictured) was described as a 'jolly and happy lad' (North Yorkshire Soccer Academy)

Sarah Kirsty Redding added: "So sad thoughts with the families at this tragic time. Rest in peace boys."

North Yorkshire Police are now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or may have seen the vehicle in the area prior to the collision to get in touch.

A spokesperson for the force said: "North Yorkshire Police is appealing for information after a serious collision near Thornton Watlass, Bedale.

"Around 11pm on Friday July 29, 2022, a grey Alfa Romeo car was involved in a collision on the B6268, Masham Road, near Thornton Watlass, Bedale.

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"The vehicle containing four young men was travelling from Bedale towards High Burton. At this stage, it is not believed that any other vehicles were involved.

"Sadly three passengers within the vehicle, a 17 year old man and two 18 year old men have died as a result of their injuries.

"The 18 year old man who was driving sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment in hospital."

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