Crash death boys 'precious jewels'

The family members of two young brothers who were killed in a Christmas Day motorway crash have paid tribute to their "happy and joyous boys".

Adnan Habib, 10, and four-year-old Arsalaan were killed when the car they were in crashed on the M6.

In a statement, their family said: "Adnan and Arsalaan were our family's precious jewels, spreading joy wherever they went. They were happy and joyous boys who were a central part of the family, always smiling and bringing smiles to everyone they met."

Their 32-year-old aunt, Bushra Tazarib, also died in the crash which happened close to junction 15, near Stoke-on-Trent, at about 11.25am. She was described as "vital" to the family and "so loving" of children.

The family's statement read: "Christmas Day began with all the joy all over the UK. We, as the rest of the nation, had the build-up to the Christmas holidays, attending school plays and preparing for a family wedding.

"The joy turned into tragedy in a split second, when we lost our boys moments apart and our beloved auntie. Adnan and Arsalaan were our family's precious jewels, spreading joy wherever they went.

"They were happy and joyous boys who were a central part of the family, always smiling and bringing smiles to everyone they met.

"Bushra had been part of the family by marriage for almost 14 years, and was a vital person. Always helping and supporting every member at all times, regardless of difficulty and joy. Bushra was so loving of all children, even though she was not blessed of any of her own.

"We thank everyone for their kind words of support, and we would like everyone to remember them in your prayers."

Two other women were travelling in the red Ford Focus, including the boys' mother, who was driving at the time of the crash. Both were taken to hospital but discharged on Boxing Day after treatment.