THEY were inseparable. Stuart Adams, 15, and Lee Mullis, 14, shared a love of sport and a deep friendship.

Lee was an outstanding golfer while Stuart's passion was football.

Tributes to the two 'fantastic lads' have been paid from sports professionals across the town, who saw their careers blossoming.

Lee was on the verge of representing England at under-15 level golf, and had been selected for a coaching course with some of the best young players in the country. He dreamed of turning professional.

He was a member of Darlington Golf Club, and took lessons at Stressholme Golf Club from an early age.

Peter Raine, assistant professional at Stressholme, believes Lee could have achieved his dream.

He said: "He would definitely have got there. He was a very talented young man, particularly for his age, and being so young he often got noticed."

Leanne Mills, manager of Darlington Golf Club, said everyone at the club was devastated. "I knew him well, Lee was a good lad. He was an outstanding and very talented golfer, and was supposed to be playing for England soon."

The youngsters played in the same Darlington 21st Allstars soccer team together since they were seven years old, although Lee left to concentrate on golf.

Mark Bailes, who coached both boys, said: "They were absolutely no bother, but I got to know Stuart especially well because he was here longer. Stuey was a cracking little full back. Although he was small he was a courageous young man, as strong as an ox."