THE family of a young rugby league player killed in a car crash in Bury have spoken of their grief.

Craig Johnson's family said they were devastated by his death.

The 18-year-old died along with his friend and fellow Wigan Warriors' under-21 player Billy Joe Edwards in the collision early on Sunday.

A statement said: "The entire family are devastated by Craig's death and we cannot begin to explain the impact it's had on our lives.

"Craig was a wonderful son, brother and friend who will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

"He was so full of life and loved his rugby, and had such a bright future ahead of him."

Craig was the brother of Great Britain centre Paul Johnson and Billy Joe, aged 19, was the brother of Wigan rugby legend Shaun Edwards.

Shaun, now coach of London Wasps, drove up from the capital to be with his parents following the tragedy.

The accident hapopened shortly after 12.30am on Sunday as the two players were in a Peugeot 106 car on Turton Road, Tottington.

Police today confirmed that an investigation into the collision is continuing.