Two young friends killed in horror smash after car slams into church wall in Rotherfield just outside Crowborough

The men were driving along the road at around 12.40am yesterday Sunday morning when they lost control of the small hatchback and slammed into a low stone wall surrounding the graveyard of The Parish Church of Saint Denys Rotherfield.

Neighbours frantically called the emergency services after hearing a loud bang, but the lads had suffered horrific injuries and were declared dead at the scene.

Stunned friends of the tragic duo have spoken of their grief on social networks.

Posting on Facebook, Tyler Scales said: “My deepest sympathy and thoughts go out to all those who have loved and lost.

There has been a few local tragedies recently; so if everyone can stop for a moment and make a wish for the families and people affected by these losses I’m sure they will be appreciated.

“Be safe, and think about how lucky you really are. Life can be taken so quick it’s unbelievable and very unfair. Big love to all those affected by the loss of life.”

Jake Jenks said: “Cant stop myself thinking about you boys,” while Jimmie Williams added: “So today we learnt life is far to short so turn to the people you have fallen out with give them a hug and say sorry because one day it might be too late.”

Firefighters had to cut their bodies out of the mangled wreckage, but they had suffered multiple injuries and could not be saved. There were no other cars involved in the crash.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: “At about 12.40am on 12 April a collision occurred in Rotherfield Road, Crowborough. A Renault Clio collided with the wall of the church and overturned.

“There were two male occupants on the car and sadly both were declared deceased at the scene.

“Police are carrying out an investigation into the cause of the collision and to identify the two men in the car.