The family of a 19-year-old woman have paid tribute to her after she tragically died during a crash between a motorcycle and a HGV earlier this week.

Carla Scown, 19, from Butterknowle, was a pillion passenger on a motorcycle which was involved in a crash with a HGV on Yarm Road in Darlington just after 5:30pm on Wednesday (February 28).

The road was closed for several hours by police who remained at the scene and told motorists to find an alternative route.

The Northern Echo: Carla Scown, 19.Carla Scown, 19. (Image: DURHAM POLICE)

The driver of the motorcycle, aged 20, was arrested in connection with the incident and has been released under investigation pending enquiries.

Carla's heartbroken mum, Fiona Scown, has today released a touching tribute to her young daughter.

“Carla was such a loving daughter, sister, cousin and friend who loved all her family and friends,” she said.

“She had the time of day for everyone and made all her friends and family so happy with her loving attitude towards them and life.

The Northern Echo: Police at the scene on Yarm Road, Darlington.Police at the scene on Yarm Road, Darlington. (Image: CONTRIBUTOR)

“Carla will be very sadly missed every single day; she has left a huge hole in so many hearts of her family and friends.”

As the investigation continues, Durham Police have issued an appeal for information from the public.

They said: "Anyone with any information that could assist the investigation is asked to email Durham Constabulary’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit at sciu@durham.police.uk quoting incident number 363 of February 28."