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Coedely crash: 'Talented' footballer in hospital after fatal collision

X/Bristol Rovers Lucas VaughanX/Bristol Rovers
Lucas Vaughan, 18, sustained life threatening injuries in the crash

An "incredibly talented footballer" remains in intensive care following a crash in which three young men died.

Lydney Town AFC said Lucas Vaughan, 18, sustained life threatening injuries in the crash in Coedely, Rhondda Cynon Taf, on 11 December at 19:00 GMT.

Callum Griffiths, 19, and Jesse Owen and Morgan Smith, both 18, died at the scene.

A 19-year-old also suffered life-threatening injuries in the crash involving a car and a bus.

Family photos Morgan Smith, Callum Griffiths and Jesse OwenFamily photos
Morgan Smith, Callum Griffiths and Jesse Owen (left to right) died in the crash, while Lucas Vaughan, 18, and another young man received life threatening injuries

Lydney Town AFC, in Lydney, Gloucestershire, said Lucas quickly became a "shining light at our club" since joining from Bristol Rovers Academy.

Meanwhile, the academy said its staff are in "constant communication with Lucas's mum Claire".

"We are supporting the family as best we can do during this extremely difficult time," it said in a statement issued on X, formerly Twitter.

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Lydney Town, which described Lucas as a "top guy with a lovely manner and zest for life", said he was being treated in Cardiff's University Hospital of Wales.

"We all pray with everything we have for him and his amazing family at such a difficult time," it said in its statement on X,

A Gofundme page has been set up to support Lucas and his family.

"He is the most kindest, loving family orientated young man who would do anything for anyone," a statement on the page said.

Callum Griffiths and Morgan Smith both played for Gilfach Goch

On Saturday, Gilfach Goch Rugby Club in Rhondda Cynon Taf paid tribute to the group as well as the football club, where Callum played for 10 years and Morgan for two.

The rugby first team held a minute of applause during their home fixture against Cowbridge.

Meanwhile, football shirts bearing written tribute messages, as well as flowers, have been laid at nearby playing fields.

South Wales Police said after the crash on Monday that two people, aged 18 and 19, remained in hospital with "life-threatening injuries".