Friends of a schoolboy tragically killed in the Oxford Eastern Bypass crash are raising money for a memorial bench to remember the good times they shared together.

Grant Gregory, Zara Moore and Lucy Gregory who, with friends, are collecting for a memorial bench for Liam Hastings

Liam Hastings, 13, of Rivermead Road, Rose Hill, was one of three boys who died when the car they were driving in crashed on May 28.

Now friends of the teenager are collecting money for a permanent memorial, one of several planned in tribute to those who have died on the county's roads.

A group of six teenagers is applying for planning permission to install a bench in a park at Rivermead Road, where Liam played football and met his friends.

They hope to raise enough money for the bench, concrete and a plaque.

Mel Lanighan, 17, of Mortimer Road, said: "We've all known Liam for about five years he was always the little one hanging out with us and we all used to look after him.

"We used to play football together and just simple stuff like bike riding.

"It's been quite horrible since he died -- it's not the same without him.

"We don't go out as much any more, because it doesn't feel the same.

"There were lots of really good times, but we don't really talk about it much because it brings back too many bad memories. It was a horrible day when he died."

They have already raised nearly £50 from people who knew Liam. Their next move is to approach businesses, the council and neighbours. Liam's parents, Sam and Ricky, have given their blessing to the project.

Oxford City Council has confirmed it has received an inquiry about a memorial bench, but no planning application has yet been submitted.

Liam's grandmother, Carol Webb-Hale, of Court Farm Road, Rose Hill, said: "They are good kids and I think it will be nice. I might have a sit and think on it as I live just round the corner. It's been a difficult time for all of us."

The Eastern Bypass crash killed not only Liam Hastings, but also Marshall Haynes, Josh Bartlett and 21-year-old Howard Hillsdon, of Yarnton.

Aiden Wood, 13, and Conor Hunt, 12, have been released from the John Radcliffe Hospital while 13-year-olds Anton Dublin and Jake Proper remain at hospital but are stable and making good progress.

Driver Angela Dublin, 45, remains in a stable condition.