THE family of a 17-year-old boy who died in a car crash in Seer Green on Friday night have paid tribute to the “gusto, passion and dedication” with which he lived his life.

Hussein Shamshudin was travelling in a grey Citroen C4, with three other teenage boys and a teenage girl, along Longbottom Lane towards the A355.

Police said the car lost control and collided with a tree. The three other male passengers were taken to hospital in a serious condition.

Inna Lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji ‘un (Quran, Surah-al-Baqara, Verse 156). “Surely we belong to God and to him shall we return”

Our son Hussein’s name itself comes from an illustrious figure, a person who played a phenomenal part in the history of Islam. Likewise, Hussein was an extraordinary person and a very important part of not just our lives but everyone with whom he came in contact. He has left a big impact on those that loved him dearly. We are feeling desperate in the aftermath of our loss. He was our shining beacon and his life will always be a big source of inspiration for all those he touched.

He was our celebrity. When he did something it was with gusto, passion and dedication. He was a keen diver, a dedicated cadet, a phenomenal artist, avid reader, enjoyed rock climbing and, in his short life, had experienced sky diving, a helicopter ride and had flown a plane. He had a heart of gold, which was apparent with his efforts to raise money for charity, including donating his first wages from his summer job at Hamley’s to charity. He had travelled to many countries around the world, including America, Dubai, Cyprus, Turkey, Barbados, Mecca (for Umrah) and Malaysia. He was really looking forward to his gap year and thereafter experiencing university life. Hussein’s life was a testament to the saying ‘A man who dares to waste one hour has not discovered the value of life’ (by Charles Darwin).

He had an infectious personality, a great smile and a vibrant spirit. He loved unconditionally. His hugs were a joy, it made us feel like a million dollars. He had a unique brand of humour and wit and had us in stitches with his jokes. His conversations made lasting impressions and he could hold his own with adults, children, strangers and friends alike. His thirst for life and knowledge was without bounds.

Not a day or a minute will go by when he is not missed. We adore him in every way and now understand that he was a precious gift in our lives, and God has made a special place for him in heaven.

He will be sorely missed by his mum, dad, sisters, grandmothers, aunts, uncles, cousins and his many friends, now and forever. Our heart goes out to the other children and their families involved in this tragic incident and we wish them all a speedy recovery.

We have been extremely touched by the outpouring of tributes and sympathy notes we have received over the last few days and we thank everyone for their support at this very difficult time.

Investigations remain ongoing into the cause of the collision. No arrests have been made.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has any information which may help officers with their investigation should contact PC David Beeson from the Road Death Investigation Unit via the Police Enquiry Centre on 101 or call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or go online at crimestoppers-uk.org.