A DALES community has been left stunned following the tragic death of an “admired” teenager in a road accident.

Jack Ellison, 19, from Dent, died when the car he was travelling in overturned on the A684 at Lincoln’s Inn Bridge, Firbank, near Sedbergh, at around 2.45am on Monday.

A number of other people in the silver Nissan Nevara were taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries but Jack was pronounced dead at the scene.

Firefighters had to use cutting equipment to rescue at least one passenger and the road was closed for four hours as police investigated the cause.

It’s understood Jack was returning from a night out with friends in Penrith.

Residents in Dent were this week visibly upset by the news.

A family statement said: “Jack was very well known in the Dale. He loved living in Dent and was planning a future that kept him close to his family and friends.

“Jack leaves behind a devastated family and is a great loss to the community where he was admired and respected by young and old alike. He was maturing into a true Dalesman.”

After he left school, Jack started his own business supplying firewood to local people and businesses.

He also worked with his Dad and brother in a family business.

Close family friend, Ian Mitchell, of the George and Dragon Hotel, told The Westmorland Gazette that Jack would do anything for anyone.

“He always had a smile on his face and he never let anything get him down,” said Mr Mitchell.

“The mood is sombre; it’s like a cloud hanging over everyone.

“This doesn’t just affect his family, although you can’t imagine what they’re going through - this affects everyone.

“I have known him all my life and I never saw him in a bad mood.”

Other residents paid tribute to a “grand child” who was “popular” in the community.

One villager, who did not wish to be named, said: “He was a good lad, it’s absolutely devastating.

“It’s not like London around here - everyone knows everyone.”

Another added: “He was one of the nicest boys in the Dale.”

Flowers and cards have been placed at the scene of the crash.

One read: “It’s so hard trying to understand why a life with so much left to live for had to be taken so young.”

A 21-year-old man from Dent was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while under the influence of alcohol.

He was bailed until August 11.

Anyone with information should contact PC Tom Davis at Kendal Road Policing Unit on 0845-33-00-247.