Ian Gallagher's family pay tribute after New Year's Day death
The family of a 17-year-old who died following a collision with a car in Wrexham on New Year's day have paid tribute to the "selfless, loving student".
The parents of Ian Gallagher said they had been overwhelmed by the support of his friends and local community.
They said Mr Gallagher was at college to realise his ambition of joining the army.
"In our eyes he was already a soldier," the family said in a statement.
Mr Gallagher was walking on Mold Road when he was involved in a collision with a Volkswagen Polo at 00:37 GMT on Tuesday.
He was taken to Wrexham Maelor hospital where he later died.
North Wales Police are investigating the incident and are looking for witnesses to come forward.
The teenager's parents Alan and Andrea, along with brother Philip, sister Beth and other family members thanked the public for their support.
"The messages and the outpouring of support from the communities of Denbigh, Caerwys and Wrexham have been incredible, we have been so touched by the warmth of feeling from his many friends," said Mr Gallagher's father.
The former Denbigh High School pupil, who was also well known in Caerwys where his grandparents live, was a student in Wrexham and had started his application to join the army.
Mr Gallagher added: "In our eyes he was already a soldier, we are extremely proud of him and all that he achieved.
"Ian was never afraid to raise his head above the parapet and stand up for the right things.
"He cared deeply for his family and friends and always put others before himself."
The family also paid tribute to everyone who helped following the collision.
"The emergency services, the medical staff, those who were with him, we are deeply grateful for everything they did for Ian, we cannot thank them enough," they added.
Any witnesses to the collision should contact North Wales Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111