The families of two tragic teenagers killed in a car crash have paid tribute to the pair.
Conor Tiley, 18, and 17-year-old Connor Williams, both from Aberbargoed, were travelling with friend Cameron Nicholas, 18, when their car was involved in a crash on New Road, Tir-y-Berth.
Gwent Police said the Ford Fiesta they were travelling in was in a collision with a silver Vauxhall Astra at around 7.25pm on Sunday, January 3.
Mr Nicholas suffered serious injuries and was taken to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.
Police said the female driver of the Astra was taken to Prince Charles Hospital, in Merthyr Tydfil, and has since been released.
Conor Tiley’s family described the teen as “loved by everyone” in a statement issued through Gwent Police.
They said: “In beloved memory of Conor Tiley aged 18 years. Beloved son of Sean and Helen and doting big brother to Sophie.
“Conor was tragically taken from us on Sunday evening.
“Conor was loved by everyone that knew him, and was always the life and soul of every family get together and party. His big smile would always light up any room.
“He will be sadly missed, but will never be forgotten and will always be in our hearts and memories.
“Cariad Mawr Mam, Dad and Sophie.”
The family of Connor Williams, known to his friends as “Eggy”, called him their “happiness”.
They said: “One of the best things in the world isn’t things, it’s every moment that we were blessed to be with our son. He was our breath, our happiness, our life.”
The two boys attended Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni and headteacher Owain Ap Dafydd paid tribute to the students.
He said: “Both Conor Tiley and Connor Williams were popular, pleasant, decent pupils at Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni. Connor Williams completed his studies with us at the end of last year. He will always be remembered as a happy boy, with a good sense of humour, who was a great friend to many.
“Conor Tiley was in the final year of his studies and had plans to study business at university. Quite the entrepreneur, he worked as a local DJ and loved music.
“Both will be sorely missed by all at the school and in the wider community. We send our deepest condolences to both families at this most difficult and painful time.
“We also understand that Cameron Nicholas is currently receiving hospital treatment. Our thoughts are also with him and his family.”
Floral tributes have been left at the scene of the crash.
One read: “Rest in peace. You were both loved by everyone boys. I have amazing memories with both of you through school. Rest in paradise boys. See you again one day. With love always, Glenn and Ebony.”
Friends have also posted their tributes on social media.
Jacob Oakley, who went to the same school, wrote: “Can’t believe what has happened. Two brilliant boys have been taken from us so tragically. To think I won’t see them again is beyond. My condolences go out to family and friends. RIP brothers, sleep tight.”
Residents living near the road, which was closed for investigation in the aftermath of the crash, have said it is prone to flooding in heavy rain.
Anyone with information relating to the collision is asked to call 101 quoting log 388 03rd January 2016.