A FAMILY have created a permanent memorial for a teen who tragically died in a crash.

Philip Michael Plews, from Darlington, died on February 5 after the van he was travelling in as a passenger crashed in Carmel Road South.

Known for his love of fishing, nature and motorbikes, the 17-year-old spent his time taking motors apart and putting them back together. Family and friends of the teenager paid tribute to a 'true gentle giant' and 'one in a million' after gathering for a balloon release at Holgate Moor Green in the days after his death.

Mother Ann-marie Robinson paid tribute to her son, who was loved by many.

“He was such a placid, quiet kid, and that was the way he was. He was a lovely boy,” she told The Northern Echo.

“He wouldn’t have hurt a hair on anybodies head. I never had one person come to me and say he’d caused trouble.”

The Northern Echo: Family and friends paid tribute to Philip in the days after his death. Picture: PAUL NORRISFamily and friends paid tribute to Philip in the days after his death. Picture: PAUL NORRIS

The Northern Echo:

Read more: Funeral of teenager Philip Plews killed in Darlington van crash

Family members visit the plaque close to the crash site at Elm Ridge Church, while Ms Robinson says she visits his grave site at the nearby West Cemetery three times a day. It is there that she talks to her beloved son and plays him music from his favourite music playlists.

She said: “I go to the cemetery because I know that’s where Philip is. That night the accident happened is not one that I want to remember, it wasn’t a nice experience for anyone involved.”

Philip had struck up an unbreakable bond with his father Philip, who “idolised” his son, and the pair shared their passion for cars by working together.

The teenager experienced health difficulties post birth, however, which later affected his school life.

Ms Robinson said: “Philip wasn’t very well when he was born and had about 14 cardiac arrests. The doctors said they wouldn’t know the damage it would cause until he grew up.

“His learning and his concentration were affected, and he don’t very well in school.”

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The son of Ann-Marie and Philip, Philip junior was a brother to Chantelle, Natalia, Kellyann, Lisa-Marie and Frankie. 

Alongside their parents, Philips four sisters and brother are determined to keep his memory alive. The family plan to redecorate the plaque site with flowers during birthdays and Christmas.

Philip's best friend, Jamie Wilby, called the teenager a "true brother" and someone who would help out anyone.

He told The Northern Echo: "Fly high my brother - you were the best friend that anyone could ask for - I love you. 

"He was the most calm and relaxed man, he would help anyone and he was massively into his cars, bikes and quads - anything with an engine. I miss him so much, I'd give an arm and a leg to have him back."

A convoy of trucks followed the funeral party to the church at a service in February, laden with floral tributes to Philip, including nods to his love for cars, his dog and diet coke, photographs and messages for the popular teenager, as well as a motorbike. 

Thanking everyone for their tributes and support, Ms Robinson said: “The number of friends that messaged me with memories was lovely to hear. He’s just missed by everybody so much.”

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