Motorcyclist and pillion passenger who died in Wakefield crash named

A motorcyclist and pillion passenger who were among six people killed in a car crash have been named.

Christopher Barton, 56, and Janine Barton, 48, were killed on the A61 near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, on Sunday.

The couple, who had recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, were described by their son as “a loving, caring mum and dad who always put me before everything else”.

They died alongside Shane Roller, 33, his partner Shannen Morgan, 30, and their daughters Rubie and Lillie Morgan-Roller, aged nine and four.

The father of Mr Roller has paid tribute to his son and said the couple “thought the world of their little family”.

Graham Roller wrote in a social media post that they were an “amazing” mum and dad.

Mr Roller said: “On Sunday we lost part of our family, Shane Roller, Shannen Morgan and two beautiful little granddaughters in a terrible car accident.

“Shane wasn’t just a son but an amazing father and he had a heart of gold. Shannen, our daughter-in-law, was funny and was also an amazing mum and they thought the world of their little family.

“They will be very much missed by everyone that knew them but they will always be in our hearts and thoughts forever.

“Fly high and stay safe together. Love you more than words can say.”

A GoFundMe page was set up for the couple’s 11-year-old daughter, who was not in the car, and had reached more than £270,000 on Tuesday afternoon.

Athersley North Primary School issued a statement saying: “It is with the deepest sadness that we address the heart-breaking news about Rubie, Lillie and their parents. So many people in our communities will feel this devastating, tragic loss.

“Rubie was a kind, happy, and caring girl with a lovely personality. She always worked really hard and was well-liked by her friends. She was a fantastic role model for her peers and aspired to be a teacher.

“Lillie was a bright, bubbly and happy little girl who was a popular member of her class. She was creative and very determined. Just like her big sister, she too aspired to be a teacher.

“Both girls were an asset to the school and a delight to teach. They were a much-loved part of the school community, and their loss is a devastating blow to everyone who knew them.

“The girls were a credit to their parents, who were always incredibly supportive and who will also be greatly missed. Our heartfelt thoughts are with their sister and her family at this incredibly sad time.”

The family group were travelling in a Ford Focus which was understood to have burst into flames after the collision which happened at about 3.54pm.

Mr Roller’s brother wrote on Facebook on Sunday: “I’m absolutely heartbroken I’m gonna miss all of you … My heart goes out to Shannen’s side of the family and mine. We are all in absolute shock.”

A statement published on Tuesday by West Yorkshire Police said: “Police can now name the motorcyclist and pillion passenger who died in a collision on the A61 between Wakefield and Barnsley on Sunday (21/7).

“They have been named as husband and wife Christopher Barton, 56, and Janine Barton, 48.

“Paying tribute to the couple, they were described by their son as “a loving, caring mum and dad who always put me before everything else.”

“The couple had recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. Family liaison officers are supporting both families, and we would ask that people respect their right to privacy at this difficult time.”