TRIBUTES have been paid to three young men from North Dorset who died in a head-on car crash in South Africa.

Grief has united teachers, sportsmen, and students across the district following the tragic deaths of 18-year-olds Oliver Mobsby and Ed Lowton, and Nick Thompson, who was aged 19.

The three friends had been classmates at the Gillingham School and were touring South Africa during a gap year expedition when the accident happened on Monday March 9.

The keen sportsmen played for the Legends FC six-a-side football team in the Soccerpitch league at Clayesmore School near Blandford.

Organiser Peter Hoffman said teams from across the league had observed a minute’s silence for the three young men.

“We were pleased to offer this mark of respect for these young lads from their friends, who wanted to do something to mark their passing,” he said.

“Not only did the team itself enter into the silence but a further seven teams remained on field from both the preceding games and those about to start, to show their respect.”

Tributes from friends have flooded pages on the social networking site, Facebook. One wrote that his friend Oli Mobsby was one funniest people he had ever had the pleasure to know.

“There are so many memories, but what I remember most is you bantering about the common room with your quick tongue and truly inspiring wit,” he said.

Another wrote that the days since learning of the accident had been difficult, adding that she would never forget the times she had shared with her friends.

“This shouldn’t have happened to any of you. You will always be in our hearts forever and will never, ever be forgotten,” she said.

No-one from Gillingham School was available to comment.