THE heartbroken family of a Bromsgrove teenager have spoken of their love for the "kind, caring, and intelligent" young man.

Sam Chambers, aged 17, was involved in a road collision last Tuesday in Bromsgrove and died at the scene.

Parents Paul and Vicki have said they can't imagine what their lives will be like without Sam, who was very excited about his job as trainee chef at the Bromsgrove Harvester.

Paul said: "He was a diamond. He was my best friend and I could never have thought about spending a day without him by my side. We can't believe he's not with us anymore."

One thing which has in some very small way comforted the couple, and Sam's younger brother Harry, 13, has been the amazing response of teenagers in Bromsgrove who knew Sam, who left South Bromsgrove High School last year.

They hold a nightly vigil at the spot where Sam lost his life and have shared stories of him with Paul and Vicki, telling them that their son was not only a great laugh, but helped them through difficult times and, on occasion, helped them turn their lives around.

Vicki said: "We always knew he was such a caring lad, but never knew how much he helped other people. It's only because he died we found out, but we're so proud of how he made other people feel and how he was willing to help."

The couple also paid tribute to Sam's girlfriend Hannah Warman, a "beautiful young lady" who had been to talk to them often since Sam's death, along with many of his other friends.

Harry said: "Sam was the best person you could ever wish for as a brother."

He thanked everyone who has given comfort, particularly Sam's friends and work colleagues, and added: "It is such a shame that this had to happen to Sam as he was such a beautiful person. I miss you Sam."

Grandparents Val and Gordon Chambers had a fantastic relationship with Sam and his loss has hit them extremely hard.

They referred to his kind, caring and intelligent ways, and described him as "perfect".

'Nannie Val' said: "We had a very strong bond with Sam, and that can never be broken."

Grandad Gordon described him as an "extraordinary lad" who cared for others before he cared for himself.

His parents added that they wanted to thank local police who have been "wonderful".

Sam's funeral will take place on Wednesday, May 28 at 10.30am at St Godwald's Church, Aston Fields, followed by Redditch Crematorium, then Bromsgrove Rugby Club.

Everyone who knows Sam or the family are welcome.

People are asked to wear something bright and trendy, as that is what Sam would want.

It is family flowers only, but people can make a donation to Action for Children.