Family's tribute to teen crash victim

12:43pm Wednesday 23rd July 2008

THE family of a teenager who died after colliding with a lamppost have released a tribute to their "beloved" son.

Robert January, 18, was rushed to hospital in critical condition after the smash on Friday, but died three days later.

The former Burnham Upper School pupil was driving a red Subaru estate along Long Furlong Drive in Slough at around 11.20pm when he collided with the lamppost.

Robert and his 16-year-old passenger were taken to Wexham Park Hospital and the road was shut for several hours while emergency services investigated the scene.

The 16-year-old was later discharged.

In their statement his family said he was well known and loved in the Burnham area, and urged others to follow in his footsteps and become an organ doner.

The statement said: "He was a regular teenager who enjoyed going out with his mates, clubbing and generally enjoying life.

"Robert loved fishing and was always trying, like all anglers do, to land the big one!

"As his many friends will tell you, he was always very particular in his appearance and designer clothing was an absolute must have."

It added: "He will be very sadly missed by mum, dad, sister and brother and also his very large family spread around the country.

"At 16 years of age, Robert made a decision to be an organ donor and now four other people have benefited from his decision.

"As a family, we are proud that he chose this course of action and take great comfort that this was his choice to help others even though his loss has devastated us as a family.

"Many thanks to staff in A&E and ITU at Wexham Park Hospital - you guys are absolute legends.

"Finally, to anyone young or old please consider becoming an organ donor as there are always people in need of them as we have found in our own unfortunate circumstances."

A 16-year-old youth was arrested on suspicion of being carried in a stolen motor vehicle. He has been released on police bail pending inquiries.

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