A serving soldier has been arrested on suspicion of drink driving in connection with the death of two teenage girls killed by a car while jogging.

The keen runners, named by police as Lucy Pygott and Stacey Burrows, were near an army garrison in Hampshire when they were involved in a collision with a black Ford Focus.

Both girls died and a 24-year-old soldier from the local Aldershot Garrison was arrested in connection with their death.

The girls were identified by Hampshire Police following news of their death on Tuesday evening.

They had been training with Aldershot, Farnham and District Athletic Club (AFD) at the time of the accident.

The family of 17-year-old Lucy described her as “an absolute joy to us” adding: “We feel lucky that she has been part of our family for 17 years.”

Her former secondary school, Farnborough Hill, released a tribute to the teenager, who had achieved eight A* grades in her GCSEs just months earlier.

Headteacher Mrs Neil described the teen as a “very popular and talented” pupil.

“We are all struggling to come to terms with what has happened but we are a close and strong community and everyone is helping each other,” she said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.”

Her form tutor, Miss Dee Andrews, added: “The brightness of her hair equalled the brightness of her smile and the energy with which she approached every aspect of school life. The world is an emptier and poorer place without her.”

Stacey Burrows' family do not wish to issue a public tribute at the current time.

The soldier who was arrested has been released on bail until a date in February.

According to the BBC, he was held on suspicion of two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and two counts of careless driving while unfit through drink or drugs.

Hampshire Police said: “17-year-old Lucy Pygott from Hartley Wintney and 16-year-old Stacey Burrows from Farnborough were involved in a collision with a black Ford Focus on Queens Avenue shortly after 7:10pm.

“Specialist officers are continuing to provide support to the teenagers’ families. Both families have requested that the media respect their privacy at this difficult time."