Tributes paid to the three people who died in A303 collision

Tributes have been paid to three people who died in Somerset earlier this month.

The incident happened near to the village of Whitelackington, at about 3.30pm on Thursday 15 August after a collision between a Skoda Yeti and a van.

The three people in the car – Andrew Carless, his uncle Dennis Smith and Claire Stride – sadly died at the scene. We continue to provide them with support and our sympathies are with them.

The families have issued tributes in memory of their loved ones.

44 year old Andrew Carless's family said they took great comfort that "Andrew (also known as Andy) had spent the day doing what he loved the most, spending it with relatives at the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show, including his uncle Dennis."

71 year old Dennis Smith's family said “he adored his three grandchildren, who equally adored him.

“He has left behind his two remaining brothers, a sister, a son-in-law, two granddaughters, a grandson, nieces and nephews, in-laws, as well as many, many great friends."

64 year old Claire Stride's family said “Claire was sociable, fun, charming, and the most loyal friend to many.

“She was famous for her crossword wins! She was fluent in Greek, loved to craft, and made legendary preserves.

“Claire always had a pet of some sort and loved horse racing.

“Claire and her twin brother Shaun reunite in the heavens above."