THE family of Samuel Crocker, a ten-year-old schoolboy who died following a collision, have said his death leaves a "massive hole that can never be filled".

Paying tribute, Samuel's family said: "On Saturday afternoon our life was turned upside down when our darling Samuel was knocked down while on his way to visit his friend.

"Later that night the bright light that was Samuel was extinguished. We all miss our little 'mole' so much and can't begin to imagine how we move on from the devastating situation we are in now.

"Someone so small has left a massive hole that can never be filled, but he will always be remembered for his cheeky, fun-loving nature and we are grateful to have had him in our lives, albeit for such a short time."

Samuel William James Crocker, age 10, was involved in a collision with a white Vauxhall Combo van shortly before 1.35pm on Saturday 28 February at Threshers.

Samuel was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital but he died from his injuries.

Cameron Trivett, 24, of Mill Street, Crediton, has been charged with driving a vehicle that failed to stop after a road traffic collision, and causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving.

He was due to appear at Exeter Magistrates’ Court on Monday 2 March.