Crash death 'days before exams'

Tributes have been paid to a teenager who was killed in a road crash days before he was due to sit his GCSE exams.

Ian Wynne Jones, 16, from Blaenau Ffestiniog, was the passenger in his cousin's car, which was in collision with a Land Rover on Friday evening.

His family said he was "always fun to be around". He was due to sit exams at Ysgol y Moelwyn next week.

His cousin was said to be in a serious but stable condition in hospital.

The driver of the Land Rover was unhurt.

After completing his exams, Ian had plans to work with his father in the construction industry, until he was old enough to join the police.

'Best friend'

He was also a keen rugby player, playing for the Bro Ffestiniog youth team, and enjoyed go-karting, and skiing in the French Alps on family holidays.

"Ian was always fun to be around - he was a practical joker," said his parents Darren and Christine in a statement.

"He was a good singer and had been named 'Bryn Terfel' by one or two of his friends."

Ian was described as being "a very friendly boy" who had numerous friends both in school and outside.

"There will be a big gap in the family and amongst his friends, without Ian. He will be much missed not only as a son but a best friend," said Mr Wynne Jones.

The accident happened on the A496 at Dolwern Hill in the town at 1755 BST on Friday.