Girl, 17, killed in crash 'sweet soul' - family

A teenage girl who died in a car crash was a "sweet soul who laughed and danced her way through life", her family has said.

Demi-Leigh Davies, 17, from Darwen, was a passenger in a Seat Ibiza that crashed on the M65 near Burnley at about 03:40 BST on Wednesday.

Her family said she "lit up any room she entered" and would be "forever 17".

The driver, also 17, and two girls aged 17 and 19 were seriously injured.

Demi’s family said: "Our beautiful angel has been taken from us far too soon.

"Demi’s smile lit up any room she entered and left a lasting impression. Once you met Demi, you didn't forget Demi.

"A sweet soul who laughed and danced her way through life."

They added: "Her happy, bubbly, caring nature shone through to anyone she met and lifted their spirits immediately.

"Words cannot truly express the pain we are all going through knowing we will never see her beautiful face or hearing her infectious laugh again.

"Although Demi has been taken from us, the memories we all have will live forever."

"A daughter, big sister, granddaughter, great-granddaughter, niece and cousin who will be loved and greatly missed."

Lancashire Police were initially called to reports of a "serious collision" but later confirmed only one vehicle was involved and two had stopped to help.

No further details have been released.

Det Sgt Martin Wilcock said: "My heart goes out to Demi’s loved ones and all those affected by this appalling incident.

"We are continuing to investigate the circumstances and I would appeal for anyone with information or footage such as dashcam or mobile footage to get in touch."