POLICE believe a teenager killed in a quad bike crash may have lost control of the vehicle while trying to overtake a car.

Officers are investigating the death of 18-year-old Josh Reid in an accident on Graham Road, Malvern, just before 7pm on Friday.

They say the bike was being ridden towards the junction with Moorlands Road and that it is thought Mr Reid, from Malvern Link, may have been overtaking a car travelling in the same direction when he lost control and left the road, colliding with a stone wall.

He suffered a serious head injury and, despite efforts by members of the public to resuscitate him before emergency services arrived, he was confirmed dead shortly after arriving at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

Police are trying to establish whether Mr Reid was wearing a helmet when the accident occurred.

More than 200 people attended a candlelight tribute held for Mr Reid at Victoria Park, in Malvern, on Saturday night and dozens more have taken to social media to pay their respects.

News of the accident has also caused shock and sadness at Dyson Perrins CE Academy, where Mr Reid was a hugely popular figure before leaving last summer.

Today the school, in Yates Hay Road, opened a book of condolences for students to pay their respects.

Headteacher David Griffin Mr Reid was an extremely popular student who had a good rapport with both students and staff.

“He was a talented sportsman and natural athlete, excelling in both rugby and football,” he said. “He contributed actively to all aspects of school life and was a passionate competitor during school house events and sports days.

“We have opened a book of condolences in our school chapel where students may share their thoughts and pay their respects. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Flowers and hand-written tributes have been left at the scene of the crash while many more tributes are being left online.

Commenting on Facebook, Jo Tummey wrote “Always in my thoughts josh boy, will never forget you xxxxx”, and Lydia Downton said “Rip josh you diddnt deserve this!xxx”.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident are asked to call PC David Wright at West Mercia Police on 101, quoting incident 414-S-120713.