Tribute paid to M6 crash family

The Stathams were 'a wonderful family', relatives said Pictures of the family

Relatives of a family of six killed in a crash on the M6 have said they were lucky to have known their lost ones.

David Statham, 38, his wife Michelle, 33, and their children Reece, 13, Jay, nine, Mason, 20 months and 10-week-old Ellouise died in the collision.

Mrs Statham's family said she and her husband were childhood sweethearts who had been together for 19 years.

David Statham was described by his mother as being a "rock" following the recent death of his father.

A statement from Mrs Statham's family read: "Michelle, David, Reece, Jay, Mason, and Ellouise are a wonderful family.

"Michelle is the eldest of three children born to Peter and Carol, with a sister Angela and a brother Alex.

Michelle Statham with baby Ellouise, Mason, 20 months, and Jay, nine

"Michelle is big hearted - she would help anyone and was always laughing. She was well liked and will be sorely missed.

"She was a wonderful mother to four beautiful children. David is a fantastic son-in-law, a pleasant, big hearted, mild mannered father and husband who loved cooking."

The family said Michelle and the children had recently become members of the Catholic Church.

The Stathams had lived in Llandudno for five years, and previously lived in Erdington, Birmingham.

The statement continued: "David and Reece are big Aston Villa supporters and attended the match this Saturday.

"Jay and Reece played and enjoyed rugby and karate. David enjoyed pool and socialising with a good network of friends, including running a local poker club.

"Mason liked to call Ellouise 'twinkle toes'.

"Michelle, David, Reece, Jay, Mason, and Ellouise will be missed by everyone. We have been lucky to have known them."

Mr Statham's family said he was a much-loved son to Angela and Alan and brother to Irene.

Reece, 13, holding his new sister Ellouise

"The families had recently celebrated Jay's ninth birthday and were looking forward to celebrating David's 39th birthday this Sunday," they said in a statement.

"Reece was an animal lover and wished to become a vet.

"David was from a very close family and had recently lost his father.

"On the death of his father, he became a rock and supported the family. He is loved by his family and is greatly missed."

The families have asked for their privacy to be respected while they grieve.