A YOUNG Naval nurse from Plymouth – with links to Newton Abbot - died in a two-car smash-up in Dorset over the weekend.

Sub-Lt Anna Bolam, who worked at the city’s Derriford Hospital, died when her Toyota MR2 was in collision with a Renault Megane on the A35 between Dorchester and Bridport on Sunday evening.

It is understood her car overturned and caught fire in the smash near Kingston Russell and Long Bredy at 6.30pm.

Sub-Lt Bolam, who police said had connections to Newton Abbot, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 49-year-old man and a 44-year-woman in the Megane were today said to be in a serious condition at Dorchester’s Dorset County Hospital.

Two 11-year-old children in the same car escaped with minor injuries. All are from Barnstaple.

Friends last night described the naval officer, of the South West Defence Medical Group, as a brilliant and beautiful nurse who was a joy to work with.

The coroner has been informed.