Heartfelt Tributes have been paid to two teenagers killed in a horror road crash near Bedale - with the youngsters being described as "great kids"

The 18-year-old driver of the car is critically ill in hospital after the crash at 11pm on Friday night near the Thornton Watlass crossroads between Bedale and Masham.

Three teenagers, a 17-year-old, and two 18-year-olds, tragically died.

Read more: What we know so far as three teens die in horror B6268 Masham Road crash in North Yorkshire

Two of the teenagers have been named locally as Aaron Bell and Louis Banks with a moving tribute made by Wensleydale Rugby Union Football Club, based at Leyburn, where they both played.

The club said: “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 seven and last season Aaron became a regular in the senior squad scoring try’s for fun for both the 1st and 2nd team.

The Northern Echo: Aaron Bell. Picture: WENSLEYDALE RUFCAaron Bell. Picture: WENSLEYDALE RUFC

“You couldn’t find nicer lads than these two and both were an absolute pleasure to coach. You will both be sorely missed and always be a part of our club.

“Condolences to Aaron and Louis' families, friends and teammates from everyone at WRUFC.”

Further praise came from North Yorkshire Soccer Academy who said Aaron Bell had played for them and was a phenomenal footballer, rugby player and cricketer.

They said: “We were devastated to hear that one of our former players passed away in a car accident. Aaron Bell was a Phenomenal footballer, rugby and cricketer.

The Northern Echo: Floral tributes were left at the scene of the horror crash. Picture: PATRICK GOULDSBROUGHFloral tributes were left at the scene of the horror crash. Picture: PATRICK GOULDSBROUGH

"He had the most cheeky grin and an unbelievable attitude to all sports. He was an all-round great kid too.

"We will remember Aaron for his tenacity, pace and power and of course that beaming smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with Aaron’s family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace mate.”

Hundreds of tributes and messages of sympathy and support have poured in through social media with one post summing up the devastating tragedy. "It's not just three lives lost, it's three families totally destroyed.”

The three youngsters had all attended Bedale High School. Masham Parish Council paid their own tribute by lowering the town’s flag to support the teenagers and their families.

The Northern Echo: A team photo containing both Aaron and Louis. Picture: WENSLEYDALE RUFCA team photo containing both Aaron and Louis. Picture: WENSLEYDALE RUFC

Rev Sian Lawton at St Mary’s Church in Masham said on Wednesday they will have books of condolence open for the three young men who died in the crash and candles can be lit for those who have died and for the young man in hospital.

St Paul's Church, Healey will be leaving the lights on throughout this week and the Church is always open for anyone who wants to go in.

North Yorkshire Police have appealed for information about the crash.

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