THE family of promising rugby league star Billy Joe Edwards, who died in a road accident, paid tribute to him on the day of his funeral.

The 20-year-old was killed with his friend and fellow player Craig Johnson when their car careered out on control in Bury and hit a brick wall.

They were both members of the Wigan Warriors under-21 team.

A service for Billy Joe, the brother of former Great Britain star Shaun Edwards, was held on Monday at St Mary's Church in Standish Gate, Wigan.

Billy Joe's mum, Phyllis, said: "I am so proud to be chosen as the mother of one of the world's most beautiful children. Billy Joe was such a treasure to us all."

A spokesman for the family added: "To say we are devastated as a family is the nearest we can come to describe how we are feeling, although that does not really come close.

"Billy Joe was so full of life and touched the hearts of so many people, he was outstanding.

"His life was nowhere near long enough, although he packed so much into it.

"Rugby was his world and he loved playing for Wigan.

"We would like to thank everyone who has sent messages and condolences, we have been overwhelmed by the response.

"We really appreciate everybody's thoughts and prayers although we would now ask people to allow us to grieve as a family."

Billy Joe and Craig died at the scene of the crash in Turton Road, Tottington, on Sunday, February 16.