THE devastated parents of a teenager killed when the car he was travelling in struck a tree have spoken of their pride for their son.

James Hore

THE devastated parents of a teenager killed when the car he was travelling in struck a tree have spoken of their pride for their son.

Michael Hammond, 18, died after the black Ford Fiesta he was in came of the Avenue of Remembrance, Colchester in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The Wivenhoe teenager was cut from the car by firefighters but was declared dead at the scene.

The driver - a 20-year-old man from Colchester who has not been named - also had to be cut out and was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

He was later transferred to the Royal London Hospital where he was in a critical but stable condition last night.

Police closed the road for about four hours following the crash at 2.30am and officers returned again yesterday morning to take more pictures and continue investigations.

Flowers and cards from family and friends have been left where the accident happened, near to the Sheepen Road junction, and last night, Michael's parents Janet Lawson and Tony Hammond, spoke of their devastation.

Mrs Lawson, and her family, said: “He was always there to help anyone. Michael was a kind, loving, gentle and helpful person who had so much to live for.

“He has left a large, empty hole in so many hearts. We are proud to call Michael our son. He will be sadly missed by all. Michael - we love you son. You will always be in our hearts; you are never forgotten.”

Michael had a sister, Ashlee-jane , and brothers - Kieron, Edward and Terence.

A card from Terence left at the crash site said: “Michael. For the time you have been with us, you have been the best brother that anyone could ask for.

“I will miss you so much, riding to work and just going out to talk. Lots of Love. Terence.”

“Michael loved his football, grand prix and, like all teenagers, partying,” his mother added.

And in a statement, Mr Hammond, added: “He was a well-loved lad who was just setting out on life as an adult. He was just starting to meet new work colleagues and had an ever-expanding group of friends.

“He was a keen lover of many sports, all of which he tried to excel at due to his competitive nature.

“He was also heavily into the drum-and-bass scene. He will be sorely missed by all and I send him my love.”

The car had been travelling towards the town centre when the crash happened and anyone with information about the accident is asked to contact Stanway road policing unit on 01206 762512.

james.hore@eadt.co.uk