Stacey Louise Rogers, 23, was driving a Subaru Impreza along the Roman Road slip-road, just off Leam Lane in Fellgate, when she lost control and hit a tree at around 12.30am on Sunday.

A 30-year-old male passenger was taken to hospital with a broken elbow.

Grieving friends have been sending in messages of condolence to the Gazette for Miss Rogers, who lived at The Willows, Jarrow.

She was described by her best friend, Amanda Sayer, from Hereford Way, Jarrow, as "the life and soul of the party".

Ms Sayer wrote: "Happy go lucky Stace, I will miss you so very much. You were my best mate and it's just so devastating to lose you!

"You are with your dad now, and I know he will look after you.

"You are the life and soul of any party, and Heaven is lucky to have you!"

Another friend, Gemma Graves, recalled how helpful and kind Miss Rogers was.

She wrote: "Stacey always had a smile and would always have a natter. She was very good at her job, my mam and dad always asked for her.

"I remember Stacey even brought my dad's glasses home with her on one occasion and delivered them to our door, which was very sweet of her.

"Travelling on the Metro to work will never be the same. Lots of love to her family."

Fhiza Khan, from Firbanks, on the Hedworth Estate, Jarrow, went to the same school as Miss Rogers, and they grew up in the same street.

In her tribute she said: "I only saw you the other day in passing from work, smiling and laughing as always, and then the next minute this.

"It's such a shock to the system. Such a bubbly and happy woman with so much more to give. I hope you are resting with the other angels hun. Sleep well."

Carly James added: "Stacey, I really can't believe you're gone and I'm never going to see you again, it's almost too much to bear.

"Sleep tight beautiful. My love and my thoughts go out to Jackie and Stacey's family."

An inquest is expected to open later today, and police are still appealing for witnesses to the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 03456 043 043, ext 65946.