THE friends of a teenager who tragically died in a road crash in Lanarkshire have been left "devastated" by his death.
Leon Fitzpatrick, 18, and Derek Paton, 19, both sadly died at the scene in Waverley Drive in Wishaw yesterday afternoon after a crash involving an off-road motorbike and a car.
Friends of Leon have described him as having "a heart of gold" who would "do anything for anyone" as they mourned the young man.
READ MORE: Waverley Drive: Teens who died in Wishaw crash named as Derek Paton and Leon Fitzpatrick
Lauren Coulter, Leon's family friend and neighbour, said: “He was so funny and friendly, he would never do anything wrong to anyone.
“We used to all hang about together on our street. He was so funny, bubbly and caring. Everybody loved him.
“It is devastating and such a shock, it hasn’t really kicked in yet that he is gone.
“You just don’t know what is around the corner. It was so hard seeing on Facebook last night and this morning that he is gone. You just don’t expect it."
An online fundraiser has been set up by the teenager's friends in their hope to cover funeral and flower costs.
Heartbroken Lauren added: “He was forever making everyone laugh. He would always be there for you if you needed someone, too. He had a heart of gold. He would never do bad to anyone or hurt anyone.
“It has just come as a massive shock for us, he had everything going for him. He had such a massive life ahead of him.
“We have set up this fundraiser to cover the costs to give him a beautiful send-off for his funeral and flowers.
“His mum is devastated and so are his siblings. She just wants her son back."
Meanwhile, online tributes have been left for Derek, who police have confirmed as the rider of the off-road motorcycle involved in the accident.
Cousin Stacey Paton wrote on Facebook: “I'm heartbroken to be writing this. My baby cousin Derek is now a precious angel. I have no words, my heart is absolutely shattered.
“I'm in bits, fly high son you'll be sadly missed.”
One friend wrote: “Thinking of Paitin Paton and the family. Absolutely devastated for them over the loss of wee Derek. Far too young to have been taken from this world.
“Rest easy wee man. Craigneuk won’t be the same without you.”
The online fundraiser can be viewed HERE.
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