A HAMPSHIRE woman has today paid tribute to her son after he was killed in a car crash.

Dean Paling and Tom Emery died after their grey Mitsubishi Lancer came off the road near Southwick.

The families of both men released statements today (Dec 6) honouring their memories.

It follows a gathering at Hedge End Retail Park where hundreds of people turned out to pay their respects.

Carol Paling, mother of 23-year-old Dean, of Holmesland Drive, Botley, said: “It was overwhelming to see the hundreds of his friends who turned out to pay tribute to my son. On behalf of my family and myself, a big thank you to all his friends who showed their support for him. I know he would have loved it.”

The Emery family said: "As a family, we are totally devastated by our lost, Tom was loved by everyone. It is difficult to come to terms with this at this time. We would like to thank everyone for their support, and ask that our privacy be respected."

Tom, 24, Moorgreen Road, West End, was driving the car along Southwick Road towards Boarhunt when the crash happened at around 11pm on Monday (Dec 5).

Police are continuing an investigation and are appealing for any witnesses to contact Sgt Shaun Hopkins, quoting Operation Adelite, on 101.