Tributes have been paid to an 18-year-old who died following a road traffic collision in Assington on Monday evening.

William Turner from Shoeburyness died after the red Vauxhall Corsa he was travelling in overturned on the A134 on Monday, March 23.

Mother Julie, father Martin and brother James, said: “Will was such a bright, shining star. He lived for his family, his friends and for his golf. We are all totally devastated. Our lives will never be the same again but seeing just how much he was loved is comforting. We have had so many kind words and tributes to Will and have been touched by them all.”

William Turner was a keen golfer who was cadet captain at Thorpe Hall Golf Club, and attended the Lee Westwood Golf School. He was due to study his AGMS degree in Birmingham this summer at the time of his death.

An area at Thorpe Hall Golf Club has been set aside for floral and written tributes to Will.

Andrew Hampton, headteacher at Thorpe Hall School, added: “Thorpe Hall School is deeply shocked and saddened by the news of the death of William Turner. Will was our Head Boy in 2012 – 2013. At school he was a charming and engaging young man, full of enthusiasm and positivity. He led the school in his final year by example, always being ready to help out where needed and presenting himself superbly. He was a warm and gentle friend to all around him, hugely respected and respectful.

“He will be sorely missed by all that knew him and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and in particular his mother who is the Chair of Governors.”