A man and a boy died after their car was involved in a horrific smash with a lorry today.

Paramedics battled in vain to save the four-year-old child who was later pronounced dead at The Horton Hospital, Banbury.

The man, aged 39, died at the scene. Police said they were members of the same family but could not confirm their relationship.

The car was left embedded under the lorry after the 9.45am accident on the A421 near Stratton Audley quarry, near Bicester.

The lorry driver was treated for shock.

Richard Goodfellow, of Thames Valley Police, said: "Weather conditions may have played a part in this accident, although it is far too early to say. A full investigation is under way." He added: "This is a very sad and tragic occurrence. Our thoughts are with their family and friends.

"This is the first hard frost of winter and we would urge people to take extra care."

Police closed the road for several hours and traffic was re-routed while the vehicles were removed.

Oxfordshire County Council confirmed that the A421 was gritted between 6pm and 10pm last night as well as the night before.

Colin Carritt, county area engineer, said: "All the main roads in and out of Bicester have been gritted but we would still urge motorists to take extra care when driving." Meanwhile, AA Roadwatch issued an alert to drivers as icy weather swept in from Scandinavia today. A number of minor accidents due to freezing conditions were reported across the country.

Story date: Wednesday 15 December

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