Former Taekwondo world champion Simon Evans has died in a tragic car crash in Shropshire alongside two friends.
The 18-year-old was a passenger in an Audi A1 when the accident occurred on a country lane in Tong near Shifnal.
Jacob Holeman and Jenson Bridges, both 17, also lost their lives following the incident which happened last Friday evening.
Emergency services rushed to Offoxey Road at around 11.15pm but sadly Simon died at the scene.
Former Taekwondo world champion Simon Evans has died in a tragic car crash in Shropshire alongside two friends
West Mercia Police
His two friends were taken to hospital where they later passed away.
A fourth 17-year-old boy, who was also in the car, suffered life-changing injuries in the crash.
West Mercia Police released a statement from Evans’ family paying tribute to the talented teenager.
The family described Simon as “a lovely, friendly person always with a smile on his face” who was deeply family-oriented.
“He would do absolutely anything for his friends, who he was very loyal too,” they said.
They added that Simon was “the glue” that held his friendship group together.
“Whenever they were together, there was always laughter,” the family noted.
Simon’s family spoke of his adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors.
“He loved to be outside, and he loved spending time in Cornwall with us and our friends,” they said.
They described him as kind and thoughtful to everyone he met.
Simon had numerous hobbies throughout his life, beginning with Taekwondo where he achieved a blue belt and became world champion.
He later explored fishing, darts, mountain biking, pool and most recently golf.
The family noted he also loved tinkering with his car alongside his brother.
Simon had recently been promoted to sous chef at the restaurant where he worked part-time, a recognition that filled him with pride.
“He was excited to be included in new ideas for the restaurant and felt proud to be part of their team and family,” his family shared.
“He would do anything to help anyone, and all those who knew Simon would describe him as funny, loving and caring.”
The family concluded their tribute by saying: “Simon is a much-loved son, brother, grandson and friend who will be sorely missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.”