Tributes have been paid to 21-year-old Max Pearson who died in a car accident near Marlborough yesterday morning.

The former St John’s pupil is believed to have lost control of the car he was driving which collided with a tree in Savernake Forest at 5.40am.

Mr Pearson sustained major injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The car was carrying four passengers, three of whom were seriously injured and were taken to Great Western Hospital in Swindon and John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

The other passengers, who are all former St John’s students, have been named by friends as Sam Parrington, 19, Emily Rodriguez-Martin, 17, and two other teenagers. One aged 15 is from Pewsey and the other is Louis Lamb, 18, from Marlborough. He suffered minor injuries and was taken to Great Western Hospital, Swindon.

Friends have praised the two younger teenagers as it is believed they helped get Emily out of the car before calling an ambulance.

Dozens of messages were posted to Mr Pearson, known as Fruit Bat to his friends, on his Facebook page.

Steve Moxon wrote: “Fruity I still don't want to believe it. I won't believe it. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it. You were the brother I never had And my best mate I never told people half of what you knew about me. Plus your the only mate who stuck around no matter what happened you were there. Stella and rich my heart feel for you more than words can say. I know I'm missing him already. Max Pearson I been sat here for last 4 hours thinking of the time you put a smile on my face and made me laugh and just been one of best mate I could of asked for I will never forget you bro take care xxx”

Robert Angel‎ wrote: “Rest in peace mate, was nice knowing you and couldn't of happened to a nicer guy. Thoughts are with your family, you will be greatly missed”

Daisy Chatters‎ wrote: “Such a sad day. RIP max your were such a character and a lovely guy who bought a smile to so many faces. You will not be forgotton. My thoughts are with your family x”

Jake Christian wrote: “R.I.P fruit bat your were one of a kind mate guna miss Ya like all Ya mates are thoughts with you friends and especially with your family rest in peace buddy xx”

Messages have also been sent to passenger Sam.

Kieron Clifford posted: “Keep fighting brother I don't wanna loose another good mate thoughts are with you and your family.”