A teenager killed in a horrific road smash was a "wonderful person" and a best friend to everyone who knew him, his grieving family said.

Lee Brett, of Falstones, Basildon, died aged 19 when he lost control of his new blue Peugeot 307 and struck a tree in Hatterill, Laindon.

Lee had been visiting his girlfriend Zoe before driving home.

Zoe said: "I would just like to say how grateful I am to have loved and met such a wonderful person like Lee.

"I couldn't have wished for a better or more special two years with him. I want to congratulate his parents and family on raising him to be the man he was "my Huni Buni."

A statement from Lee's parents said: "Lee would always do anything for us.

"Not only was he our son, but he was also our best friend and we are grateful we had 19 years to cherish him. We would like to thank all those who have helped us through this difficult time."

Lee's mother said: "He was a popular and much-loved schoolboy.

"He had many close friends who always knew he was there for them - whether it be for fun and laughter or just a chat. He was a bright, enthusiastic and ambitious teenager whose future was about to begin."

Lee worked for PGR Plumbing, played golf and football and was a West Ham fan.

His brother Christopher has fond memories of them wrestling at home when they were younger.

His sister, Rachel said her main regret is that Lee will not see his 19-month-old nephew Alfie grow up.

She said: "We will show Alfie pictures of his uncle and, as he grows up, we will all tell him stories of how great his uncle was."

The funeral is at 3.30pm on September 22 at Pitsea Crematorium. Family members, friends and work colleagues are invited to attend and are requested to wear bright colours.

Police are appealing for witnesses to last Wednesday's collision, and are keen to speak to the driver of a red car seen leaving nearby Gower Chase at around 7pm.

Witnesses should call 01268 541312.