Family tribute issued following conclusion of proceedings into collision on Toll Bar Road, Marston in June 2025

Following the conclusion of the proceedings into the collision on Toll Bar Road at Marston on 20 June 2025, the families of Harrison Carter, 18 and George Stephenson, 17, who were passengers in the vehicle involved have released tributes to them.

In a statement Harrison’s parents, Sarah and David, said:

“Our beloved son, Harrison (Harry), was also a devoted brother to Owen and William, acting as their protector, encourager, voice of reason and confidant. He was resilient, generous without needing applause, authentically charming, honest & humble. He was motivated by meaning, not ego.

“A highly regarded champion golfer; a well-respected member at both Greetham Valley & Belton Park Golf Club. Educated at St. Nicholas Primary School, Cottesmore and latterly a student at the Kings School, Grantham.

“Harry was a Member of the Law Society and Debate Club, where he would passionately and enthusiastically analyse complex issues with a natural curiosity, enjoying the intellectual challenge. He fostered compassion & empathy and had an intense understanding of fairness and respect.

“He achieved excellent GCSE and A-Level Results, adoring philosophy & ethics which he intended to study at Durham university, with a view to pursuing a career in Law.

“Harry had the most wonderful smile and the biggest heart giving love and time unconditionally to anyone who needed it. Harry saw the good in everyone and made a lasting impression on those whose lives he touched.

“Whilst the loss we feel is immeasurable, we also recognise that grief is the price we pay for love. Harry leaves a legacy of pure kindness - We could all benefit from being a little more like Harry.

“Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to again thank the Police, the emergency services, Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance and the Kings School, Grantham to whom we extend our deepest gratitude, alongside our unwaveringly supportive family & friends, who have been our pillar of strength in recent months.”

Harrison Carter, 18 (Family photo)

George’s parents, Vicki and Bruce stated:

“As a family, we continue to be devastated by the loss of our youngest child, George, and know that this pain is something that we will endure for the rest of our lives. We are grateful for the 17 wonderful years that we had with him and will remember him for the love and laughter he brought, not just to our lives, but also to many others.

“George was a lovable, witty and intelligent young man who cared deeply about his friends and loved ones, often putting his own needs behind those of others. He was unassuming and modest, preferring to minimise his own achievements, and he acted as his friends’ greatest cheerleader. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, socialising, and the freedom that passing his driving test gave him.

“As a water polo player for Grantham Water Polo Club, The Kings School, and the East Midlands region, George travelled the country for matches and tournaments and was well known for being supportive to the younger players.

“He worked with a range of coaches, and team members, and he fully intended to join the water polo squad at the University of Sheffield as he took his place there to study psychology. He achieved above the necessary grades in his A-levels, gaining A*, A and B; but, sadly, he never got the chance to enjoy university life.

“Losing George in such a senseless and traumatic way has shattered our family. He was the final part of our jigsaw puzzle, and, without him, we can never be complete. There is now a numbness in our lives, as we have already experienced the worst thing that could happen to us.

“Waking up each day and remembering that he is gone brings us fresh pain, and the knowledge that we will never hear his voice, see his smile, or be enveloped in one of his wonderful hugs is utterly heartbreaking.

“George was generous, charming and kind, and he brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He will always be in our hearts and thoughts as we attempt to live our lives without him. He was, literally and metaphorically, our BFG and he truly leaves a giant-sized hole in all our lives.

“We would like to thank Lincolnshire Police, especially the Serious Collision Investigation Unit and the Family Liaison Officers, for their support during this time. Our thanks also goes to the very many people who have offered support and kindness since George’s tragic death.”

George Stephenson, 17 (Family photo)