THE family of a teenage girl who died in a car crash in Amersham on New Year's Eve have paid tribute to their “caring and beautiful daughter”.

Katy Hanafan was killed when her car was involved in a collision with another vehicle on the A413 at around 5.15pm.

Today the family of the 19-year-old from Hemel Hempstead released a tribute to her.

It said: “Katy was the most caring and beautiful daughter, who loved her life, her job, her car, her boyfriend Mark and all her family.

“She was the life and soul of any party or night out with friends without even needing a drink; she just needed music to make her come alive.

“It's so terribly difficult to understand why this has happened. All we want is to turn back time and for her to come home. We all miss her so very much.”

Flowers dedicated to her memory were left at the scene of the accident and dozens of friends left messages of remembrance for the tragic teenager on the social networking website Facebook.

Pal Stefanie Bailey said on the popular website: “R.I.P Katy Hanafan the most beautiful brightest shining star in the night sky. We were so lucky to have you and heaven is reunited with its angel.”

Terri Carlisle wrote: “Before I got a chance to say bye God came and took you to the sky. I hope there will be a time when we will all meet again.”

A post-mortem into Katy's death was due to take place on Tuesday.

Police have issued an appeal for witnesses to the collision to contact them.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Brett Dwyer on 08458 505 505 or the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.