A HORROR smash in Accrington has left 14 children without a father, it was revealed yesterday.

Rafique Khan, 43, who left behind 11 children, and 42-year-old Aurang Zeb Khan, who was a father-of-three, were killed when the Vauxhall Vectra they were in was in collision with a Mercedes.

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Their devastated families yesterday paid tribute to the pair, both from Accrington, as the community reeled in shock.

Rafique Khan’s family said in a statement: “Rafique was taken from us on Friday evening whilst out with friends in the Accrington area.

“He leaves behind a loving wife and 11 children. He is greatly missed by all his family and friends.”

The family of Aurang Zeb Khan, also known as Aurang Zeb, who was driving the Vauxhall, said: “Aurang was sadly taken from us in a road collision on Friday. He was a loving husband and father to three children. Taken too soon, he will be forever missed.”

Hyndburn mayor Munsif Dad, who lives in Monk Street in Accrington, said the accident had shocked the community, but had also brought it together.

Coun Dad met with Aurang’s family to plan his funeral, expected to take place this afternoon. He added: “Then the family will be looking for the burial to be done in Pakistan. It’s really brought the comm-unity together in a sense.” Rafique’s funeral is also expected to take place today, although further details were not available.

Police are appealing for information after the fatal accident, at the junction of Hyndburn Road and Oxford Street, which also left four others seriously hurt.

Officers said the Mercedes was travelling west along Hyndburn Road, while the Vauxhall was travelling north across the junction towards Asda when they collided. Both Rafique and Aurang Khan died at the scene.

A third passenger from the Vauxhall and three people from the Mercedes, including the driver, were taken to hospital.

A police spokeswoman yester-day said there was no update on the conditions of the others involved in the incident.

Anyone with information can call police on 101, quoting log number 1491 of Friday, October 10. or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.