THE two people who died in a horror motorway crash involving three lorries and a car earlier this month have been named by police.

Susan Curtis, 67, of Malvern Road, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, and Michael James, 77, of Birkdale Court, Broadstone, Dorset, died when the Audi they were in and three lorries collided between junctions 9 and 10 of the M3 northbound, near Winchester.

Two of the lorry drivers also sustained minor injuries; one was taken to Southampton General Hospital and the other was taken to the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester.

Now, the families of the two victims have paid tribute by releasing photos in their memory.

Michael’s family also released a statement, saying: “Suddenly and tragically Mike James was taken from us and leaves behind two sons and two grandchildren. Much loved and will be terribly missed by so many."

Officers are still investigating the collision, which took place at around 10.30am on Monday, June 5, and are appealing for anyone who may have information or dashcam footage to come forward.

The motorway was closed in both directions between junctions 10 and 11 for over an hour, with two lanes of the northbound carriageway remaining closed for nearly 11 hours.

At its peak, there were delays of nearly two hours stretching back towards junction 13 for Eastleigh (northbound). Surrounding roads also suffered long delays.

A 63-year-old man was interviewed under caution in connection the crash, and has been released under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101, quoting 44170212966, or call the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.