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An eight-month-old boy and his aunt have died following a crash on the A1(M) in County Durham.

Zackary Blades and 30-year-old Karlene Warner were travelling between Chester-le-Street and Durham in the early hours of Friday when their vehicle was hit by another car, police said.

The pair died at the scene. Zackary's mum, who was driving, was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

A 38-year-old man appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Monday charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving.

He was remanded into custody and is due to appear at Durham Crown Court on 1 July.

The man was also charged with possession of a bladed article.

The collision happened at about 03:15 BST on the southbound carriageway of the A1(M), which closed the road for several hours.

'So much happiness'

In a statement, Zackary’s mum, Shalorna Warner, and his dad, Jack Blades, paid tribute to their son.

"We only had you in our arms for eight months but in that time, you brought us so much happiness to all our lives," they said.

"You were so close to standing up on your own. I’m so sorry you never got to grow up."

The family also paid tribute to Ms Warner, who leaves behind a daughter, Everly.

"Your crazy, sassy, funny, beautiful, presence will stay with us forever and is so evident in your beautiful little girl," they said.

"You may be gone but you live on through Everly."

They added: "We find comfort knowing that you are with our beautiful Zackary and you are together."

Durham Constabulary continue to appeal for witnesses.

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