Head pays tribute to victims of car crash

None of three occupants of the car, Antonia Browne, 14, Michael Gallagher, 16, and Tom Hughes, 15, were old enough to drive.

They died when their Honda Civic left the A630 between Conisbrough and Warmsworth near Doncaster at around 4.30am yesterday.

The impact was so severe the silver hatchback, which belonged to a relative of one of the teenagers, split in two.

Michael, who had been driving, was cut free from the front of the car and Antonia and Tom were cut free from the rear passenger seat.

They were taken to Doncaster Royal Infirmary where they were pronounced dead. Antonia and Michael were pupils at McAuley Catholic High School, Doncaster.

Headteacher Paul Gray said: “Both students were very popular and the Catholic community, including both their primary and secondary schools has been really shaken by their untimely loss.

“The thoughts and prayers of all the school community is with the family and friends of these young people.

“During a prayer service this morning, between tears and smiles, some memories were shared by their peers.

“Michael is remembered for being ‘an old head on young shoulders’ by his close friends.

“If anyone was down or in need of advice, Michael was the one who would put things in perspective.”

Antonia was described as “a beautiful person full of smiles”.

Mr Gray added: “She was the height of popularity, but never full of herself. Antonia was very bubbly and loved company, and was never judgmental or into cliques. Friends also commented on how kind Antonia was; always keen to chat to other students who needed their day ‘brightening up’.

“The most prominent picture of Antonia in most people’s eyes was her infectious smile.”