The grief-stricken parents of a man who died after a fatal road crash have described how their loss has left a "massive hole in their hearts".
Christopher Howells, from Cimla in Neath, died as a result of the crash on the B4287 at Efail Fach, Pontrhydyfen, at around 7.30pm on Saturday, October 30. He was just 22.
The collision involved two vehicles, a green Mazda MX-5 and a red Ford Fiesta, which were travelling in opposite directions. The road was closed for several hours for investigations to be carried out at the scene.
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Mr Howells’ parents have released a tribute to their son: “Sadly, on October 30 our beloved son, brother, uncle and friend Christopher Howells passed away. He was one of a kind, outgoing and full of laughter. He will be dearly missed by many and has left a massive hole in everyone’s hearts.
“He enjoyed his first early workdays in Skewen McDonald’s and then went on to achieve his ambition as a car bodywork apprentice and was doing so well and all his colleagues at McDonald’s and H.J. Phillips were very proud of him and, like the rest of us, couldn’t believe his sudden departure.
“There are no words to describe the loss our family is currently feeling and dealing with. We will always love and miss you.“
Chris’s friend, Callum added: “Chris was my best friend of over seven years, we first met in college and became long and very close friends, to the point of feeling like we're brothers.
“He was always the friendliest and most warm-hearted person to be around. We spent almost every day together and I will truly love every moment that we shared together. I will miss you forever and this will forever be a big hole in my heart."
The serious collision investigation unit at South Wales Police is continuing to appeal for information following the collision.
Officers are appealing for anybody with information, who may have been travelling along that route and noticed the manner of driving of either vehicle moments before the collision, or who may have dashcam footage, to make contact by clicking here, sending a private message on Facebook or Twitter, e-mailing SWP101@south-wales.police.uk, or calling 101 quoting the reference *380974.
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