The family of a 12-year-old girl who died in a collision on the M61 have paid tribute to “a cheeky, funny girl who was always smiling.”

Sana Patel died at the scene when the Nissan Qasqai she was travelling was involved i a collision with a Nissan Micra at 10.25pm on Saturday.

In a tribute released today, her family said: “Sana was a friendly and cheeky girl who was always smiling. She had a real zest for life and fun. She lit up the lives of so many around her and had so much to look forward to. 

“We will miss her sorely and always remember her fondly. She has left us with so many good memories. 

“We would like everyone to respect our privacy at this tragic time. We ask everyone to remember our family in their prayers.”

Two people from Yorkshire have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released under investigation.

Read more: Two people arrested after death of girl, 12, in collision