Boys who died in crash 'touched everyone's hearts'

The parents of two young brothers who died in a crash have described them as kind and caring boys who touched the hearts of everyone they met.

Tobias and Finley Rice from Christchurch, Dorset, had been on their way to St Ives on 28 May when the car they were in was involved in a multi-vehicle crash on the A30 in Cornwall near Connor Downs.

Tobias, eight, died at the scene. Finley, five, was taken to Bristol Children's Hospital where he died on 2 June.

Devon and Cornwall Police said a local man in his 60s, who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving, was treated for minor injuries.

In a tribute released through Devon and Cornwall Police, the boys' parents said: "Both boys were full of life and energy and enjoying life to the full, through their love of school and scouting.

"Tobias had just moved up to cubs and Finley was about to move onto beavers.

"Their kindness and love and caring natures touched the hearts of everyone they met on their way through life.

"Following this tragic loss, they have left behind two big sisters, grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins and friends.

"Everyone that they met on the way now have a hole in their hearts."

The family thanked emergency services and the NHS for their help and support and appealed for privacy and respect.

Det Insp Andy Heath of the force's Serious Collisions Investigation Team urged anyone with information who has not contacted the police already to get in touch.

He said: "Specially trained officers continue to support the family and further information will be released at the appropriate time."

On Tuesday, the headteacher of Priory CE Primary School Simon Croutear said the boys were "cherished members of our school family" and would be "immensely missed".