THE family of a young man killed in a crash at the weekend say their world has been turned upside down.

Ryan Mark Charlton, 23, from Low Fell, Gateshead, who was known to his friends as "Curly", died on Sunday (April 10) in an early hours collision on the A1 near Dunston.

In a statement issued by Northumbria Police his family said: "Ryan was a funny, happy boy. He was always making people laugh with his silly faces and voices.

“He was loved and treasured so much by his family and friends. We have had our world turned upside down and our hearts ripped out. His passing has left a huge hole in our lives and life will never be the same again for us.

“We would like to thank everybody for their support and beautiful cards and floral tributes we have received at this time.

“We would also like to thank Northumbria Police, with special thanks to PCs Gary Morris and Steve Ford for all their help and support in what is a desperately sad time for us.

“Most of all we would like to send our thanks and love to Ryan's friends who I know he loved very much and have been absolutely amazing for him."

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the collision.

They are asking anyone who was on the A1 in the Dunston area in the early hours of Sunday morning to call them on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference 238 190415.

A 31-year-old man arrested in connection with the collision has been released on police bail.