Family’s tribute to teenager who died in crash

William Radford died in a crash in West Sussex

A family have paid tribute to a teenager killed in a crash involving a car and van in West Sussex.

William Radford, from Broadbridge Heath, was driving on the A281 Brighton Road at Monks Gate, near Horsham, at 16:30 BST on 10 June when the crash happened.

The 17-year-old was airlifted to a hospital in London, but died on 13 June.

A statement from his family said: “His passion for life, his confidence, charisma, courtesy and considerate nature was admired by anyone he met.”

William, known to his family as Will, was a student at Collyer’s College in Horsham.

A family spokesperson said Will was “the beating heart of our whole family”.

“He was a brilliant student. A dedicated friend. An adoring boyfriend. A protective brother. A loving son and grandson. A cheeky chappie with a kind heart,” they said.

“We will miss everything about him, every single day.”

A 17-year-old boy from Cowfold, who was a passenger in the Nissan Micra driven by William, was taken to hospital in Redhill with minor injuries.

A 54-year-old man driving a Renault van, from Waltham Forest, London, was also taken hospital with minor injuries.

Both have since been discharged.

Police are investigating the circumstances of the collision and urged anyone with information or footage to contact them.