Tributes have been paid to a teenage soldier killed in a car crash while driving home with his girlfriend.

Jeff Stenning, who served in the Royal Signals, died when his white Ford Focus swerved off the road and hit a lamppost.

The accident happened as the couple were travelling eastbound along the A259 at Wick, near Littlehampton, at 9.30pm on Monday.

Emergency services, including an air ambulance, rushed to the crash site but the 18-year-old died at the scene.

His girlfriend Leah, 19, was rushed to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton with serious injuries and remained there last night. 

Mr Stenning wa s private in the British Army and was pictured embracing a friend in his new uniform at the end of last year. 

Friends and family flocked to the internet to pay tribute to Mr Stenning, who was a former pupil at Littlehampton Academy. 

Nathan Harrison, who served alongside Mr Stenning in the army, said: "You were the light in basic training. You made every moment seem funny and just amazing.

"I speak on behalf of the lads in the Royal Signals who were in 8 Troop with us. We are all proud to serve alongside you. 

"Will mis you big man, you'll never be forgotten."

Kelly Davy said: "Jeff was a lovely boy growing into a fantastic man. He will be missed by all his friends and family - a tragic accident that has taken a wonderful young man away too soon."

Beth Woods said: "So scary knowing Jeff was fine yesterday and the next thing you know he's died.

"It's so sad - he barely got to live his life."

Kiera Dynan said: "RIP to one of the nicest next door neighbours and so young, can't believe it I'm actually in tears, RIP Jeff."

Another friend said: "RIP Jeff Stenning, you were like family to us. Love and thoughts go out to to Jeff and Leah's family."

Friend Sophie Cooper said: "RIP Jeff, you and Leah were so good together . . . perfect match.

"I just hope you stay strong and make a full recovery gorgeous girl."

A police spokesman said: "This was a terrible tragedy in which a young man lost his life."

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting Operation Monitor, or email contact.centre@sussex.pnn.police.uk. 

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