The family of a doctor killed in a crash on the M25 in the early hours of bank holiday Monday have paid tribute to him.

In a statement released by Surrey Police, the family of Christopher Janaway, one of six people killed in the accident, praised the popular and warm-hearted 28-year-old.

Mr Janaway was one of five men on their way home from a stag weekend when the recovery vehicle they were traveling in collided with a lorry at around 2am near Leatherhead.

The driver of the Dunchurch Motors recovery vehicle, a 46-year-old man from Rugby, also died in the smash.

In the statement Mr Janaway's family said: "The whole family is devastated by the loss of a wonderful son, brother and great friend.

"Chris was in his second year working as a qualified doctor. He had attended local schools in Godalming (St Marks and Rodborough), and obtained a first class honours degree in biochemistry at Bristol University, going on to do a four-year post-graduate medical course at St George's, Tooting.

"He elected to undertake some of this training in Australia and India.

"Chris loved travelling and his main hobby was fishing; he enjoyed rock climbing trips to Scotland with his friends.

"Chris was always very popular, warm-hearted, great company, and readily gave his time to others."

Police said the names of all the dead will be released when they have been formally identified in the next day or two.

A further passenger in the recovery vehicle was taken to East Surrey Hospital with a broken leg and facial injuries.

Seven other minibus passengers travelled separately back to Brighton, arriving safely.

Ch Supt Rob Price, of Surrey Police, said: "Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the six people who died in this tragic crash."This is one of the worst collisions Surrey Police have dealt with on the M25."At this stage it is too early to confirm the exact cause of the collision."It will be a number of days before we are in a position to release further details."The lorry driver was not injured and is currently helping police with inquiries.The M25 has now been re-opened.