A teenager tragically killed in a freak car crash has been hailed by his parents' as “one of the kindest, smiliest people”.

Jake Birkinshaw, 19, from Hathersage in Derbyshire's Peak District, died in the passenger seat of a silver Ford Fiesta on Christmas Eve.

The vehicle's unnamed 17-year-old driver lost control of the car as they went round a bend on Hathersage Road in Dore, South Yorks, causing the Fiesta to flip at around 10.15pm.

Jake was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident where his injuries proved fatal.

The 19-year-old's heartbroken family released a statement on Saturday, paying a touching tribute to their young son and brother.

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They said: "He was one of the kindest, smiliest people you could have ever met.

"His tragic death has affected not just his family and friends, but a whole community.

"The amount of cards, food and flowers we've received is astounding, and it's heartwarming to see the vast amount of people whose lives he touched.

"He was best known for his smile, his inquisitive mind, and his willingness to help anyone in need, and is best remembered for his love of mountain biking, mechanics, and his grey Fergie that he insisted on driving through the village and holding up traffic."

Jack had just passed his Engineering A-level exam, achieving a distinction, at King Edwards Sixth Form and leaves behind a brother, sister and parents "who all love him dearly and will never forget him".

South Yorkshire Police have asked for potential witnesses to come forward with any information or footage that can help their investigation into the collision.

If you can help, call South Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 1120 of December 19.

You can email dash-cam footage to [email protected] quoting the incident number in the subject title.

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