School minibus crash: Family tribute to Ashley Talbot

"We would like to thank everyone for the support," said Ashley's family in a statement

The family of a 15-year-old pupil who died following a "tragic accident" at a school say he "will be with us forever in our memories".

Ashley Daniel Talbot was struck by a school minibus, which was on its way to a rugby game, at Maesteg School in Bridgend county.

"He would brighten the darkest of rooms with his smile and sense of humour," said Ashley's family in a statement.

A 13-year-old pupil was also injured in the crash on Wednesday at 15:05 GMT.

South Wales Police officers were at the school to speak to witnesses before lessons began on Thursday.

In their tribute, Ashley's family said: "Ashley was taken from us following a tragic accident.

"Our son was our life and he was loved as a brother and we wouldn't change him for the world.

"He was a typical teenager, a practical joker with a wicked infectious laugh.

"Ashley will be missed so much by everyone, but will be with us forever in our memories.

"We would like to thank everyone for the support and kind messages and would ask that we are left alone to grieve as a family."

Floral tributes were left outside the school in memory of the teenager

The school said it was co-operating with the police investigation and the Health and Safety Executive had been informed.

PE teacher Chris Brooks, who was driving the minibus, said: "All my thoughts, wishes and prayers are with Ashley's family."

Ashley's classmates wrote a touching tribute which was read out by Keith Edwards, chair of governors at the school, on Thursday.

They paid tribute to his "bubbly" and "infectious" personality and said the gap that Ashley leaves can never be filled.

The minibus was taken away on a trailer for examination