THE younger brother of former Great Britain rugby league star Shaun Edwards was one of the sport's two rising stars killed in Tottington at midnight on Saturday (Feb 8).

Billy Joe Edwards and his Wigan Warriors teammate Craig Johnson died when their Peugeot 106 smashed into a garden wall in Turton Road.

One of the men was thrown from the vehicle and the other had to be cut free. It is not yet known who was driving the car.

It is believed they were driving home after visiting a relative in the Tottington area when the accident happened. No other vehicle is thought to have been involved.

Their deaths were announced on Sunday before Wigan's fourth round challenge cup game at the JJB Stadium. A minute's silence was held as a mark of respect.

Both players were in Wigan's under 21s team and were said to have had a great future ahead of them.

According to the club's website, 18-year-old Craig, the younger brother of Wigan's senior player Paul, had returned to Wigan after a spell at Warrington.

Billy, who had celebrated his 20th birthday this month was involved on a daily basis with the club's Community Development Outreach programme.

He had visited many schools in the area promoting lifestyle and education and campaigned against bullying.

Club chairman Mr Maurice Lindsay led the tributes. He said: "Both of these lads were a delight. It's a tragedy and our first thoughts and condolences go to Mr and Mrs Edwards and the Johnson family."

Warriors' coach Stuart Raper added: "It was a difficult day for the players but we'll get behind Paul, his family and the Edwards' and support them as much as we can."

A police spokesman confirmed: "The car lost control, left the road on the near side then collided with the wall. One man was thrown from the car and other was trapped and had to be cut free.

"It is quite probable that speed may have played a factor."