Premier League hopeful killed with two friends in car smash

A promising footballer was one of three teenagers killed when their car ploughed into a lamp post.

Jamal Campbell, 18, died with two friends in the smash in Watford in the early hours of Friday. He, Conrad Ryan, 17, and Craig Charles, 18, were from Neasden.

A 17-year-old driving the vehicle was the only survivor. He was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been bailed until 10 November.

Jamal was set to make his Wealdstone FC reserve team debut this month and had had a trial for Luton. One of his football coaches said today that he had the talent to reach the Premier League.

The Isthmian League Premier Division team, whose former players include Vinnie Jones and England international Stuart Pearce, held a minute's silence before their Saturday match against Maidstone United.

Mr Campbell's mother, who asked not to be named, paid tribute to her son today, saying: "Losing a son is so hard. We're all struggling to cope with what has happened."

Esther Oyinlola, 18, who went to Stanmore College with Jamal, said: "I'm still so shocked. I cry every day and every night. Jamal was a really good friend to a lot of people." Ryan Lee, 18, who plays for Wealdstone, said: "Jamal was not only one of the funniest people I have ever known but one of the nicest."

Both Jamal and Craig Charles attended Rooks Heath College for Business and Enterprise in South Harrow.

Anyone with information about the Wiggenhall Road crash should call Hertfordshire Police on 01707 354379.