Prayers for M5 crash victims

Prayers have been said for the victims of last Friday’s horrific crash on the M5 near Taunton which claimed the lives of seven people.

Crash investigators believe the crash near Taunton in Somerset may have been caused by a combination of thick fog and heavy smoke drifting across the motorway from a fireworks display at nearby Taunton Rugby Club.

More than 30 cars and six articulated lorries were caught in the pile up which triggered a huge fireball.

The seven fatalities included churchgoers Tony and Pamela Adams, who were returning home to Newport in Wales after visiting their daughter in Taunton.

Mr Adams, 73, had reportedly been due to preach at yesterday morning’s service at the church they attended in the city, St Mark’s.

Instead, the Rev Andrew Willie had to tell the congregation of their death.

“We will remember Tony and Pam with love and affection,” he was quoted as saying by the BBC.

“Prayers were said for them and their families who are obviously devastated by the loss of their adored parents.”

Prayers were also said for the victims, relatives and emergency services during mass at Taunton Catholic Church on Sunday.

One victim, 19-year-old Emma Barton, is still in a coma following the collision. She has yet to learn that her father and sister who were travelling with her were both killed in the crash.

In a statement, Taunton Rugby Club extended its thoughts and prayers to those affected.

“Taunton Rugby Club would like to take this opportunity to extend our thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of those who have been affected by the tragic incident,” it said.

“Taunton RFC is working closely with Avon and Somerset police to assist with their investigations.”