Tributes paid to 'beloved' teen who died in crash
- Relatives of Sophie Ford, 18, have spoken of their deep sense of loss at her death in a crash on the A21
- They said in a statement she "touched the hearts of so many people" and would be sorely missed
- Sussex Police appealed for information and witnesses to the crash to come forward
The family of a teenager killed in a crash in East Sussex have spoken of their devastation at her “promising future” being cut short.
Sophie Ford, 18, was the sole passenger in a car which is believed to have left the A21 at Kent Street, near Hastings, on 27 October and then hit a tree.
The driver of the Seat Leon Cupra, a 27-year-old man, was taken to hospital with serious, but not life-threatening injuries, Sussex Police said.
In a tribute released through police, Ms Ford’s family described her as a “beloved daughter, sister, niece, cousin, grand-daughter and friend”.
They said: “A recent leaver from Battle Abbey School, Sophie was an avid animal lover and sportswoman who loved to sing and listen to music.
“She was a volunteer at a local animal sanctuary and stables and had just embarked upon a degree course in veterinary physiotherapy.
"She had such a promising future ahead of her. We are devastated that her life has been brought to a premature end in this way.
“Sophie touched the hearts of so many people both in the region and overseas and she will be very sadly missed by us all.”
Sussex Police appealed for witnesses, or people with dashcam footage, to contact [email protected]
Follow BBC South East on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].