OFFICERS investigating the deaths of two young rugby stars in a road traffic accident in Bury are trying to trace the driver of a white car.

Billy Joe Edwards, aged 20, and 18-year-old Craig Johnson were killed when the car they were travelling in crashed into a wall in Turton Road, Tottington, in the early hours of Sunday February 9.

Police believe a white vehicle, possibly a taxi, was travelling behind the men's Peugeot 106 shortly before the accident. Billy Joe, from Beech Walk, Standish, and Craig, from Spencer Road, Wigan, both played for Wigan Warriors' under-21s team.

Craig was the brother of Great Britain centre Paul Johnson, while Billy Joe was the brother of Wigan rugby legend Shaun Edwards.

Funeral services for both men were held early this week.

PC Peter Raines, who is leading the investigation, said: "I believe the driver of the white car witnessed the accident before driving off. This man may be able to help us piece together what happened.

"There is no suggestion he is anyway involved in the accident, but I believe he may have some vital information.

"My main priority is investigating this crash and I need to speak with this man, although I must stress he is not in any trouble.

Anyone who witnessed the crash should contact the Bury Traffic Unit on 0161 856 8073.

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