THE family of a couple who died in a crash have paid tribute to them.

John Barnes, 76, and his wife Kathleen, 77, from Fairford, were involved in a four-car pile-up on the A361 in Upper Inglesham on September 25.

Mr Barnes and 23-year-old Oliver Williams, from Lechlade, were both killed in the crash and Mrs Barnes died on October 21 after suffering serious injuries and fighting for her life for 25 days at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

In a statement the family of the couple said: “After an incredibly brave fight for her life, which lasted 25 days, unfortunately Kathleen succumbed to her injuries and was also taken from us on 21st October.

“The hurt and disbelief that has been caused to the family has left them totally devastated at the unnecessary loss of two wonderful parents and grandparents.

“Both Kathleen and John loved life and enjoyed it to the full, making the most of holidays together and spending time with their family."

The children of Kathleen and John have opened a charity account to raise funds for a bench to be placed close to their parent’s graves at St Mary's in Fairford.

They would also like to give a donation to the ICU at John Radcliffe Hospital, who did everything possible to try to save their mother's life.

If you wish to donate to the charity, send cheques payable to John & Kathleen Barnes Memorial Fund, c/o S Drew, 212 Stratton Heights, Cirencester, Glos, GL7 2RW.

John and Kathleen's funeral will be held at St Mary's Church, Fairford, on Thursday November 12 at 1pm.

Should anyone wish to walk and follow the funeral carriages, they should meet at Aldsworth Close at 12.15pm, or on the route in Park Street.

A celebration of John and Kathleen's lives will be held at the Bull Hotel in Fairford after the funeral service.