Ex-England schoolboy footballer dies after being hit at 'car meet'
- Published
Sam Harding, 20, was struck by a black Audi S3 in Warrington
A footballer has died after being struck by a vehicle at a "car meet" in Cheshire.
Former England schoolboy international Sam Harding was struck by a black Audi S3 at Kingsland Grange in Warrington on Sunday night, police said.
The 20-year-old from Stockport was taken to hospital and later pronounced dead.
A 21-year-old man from Leeds was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
The footballer's family described him as a "sweet angel" and "a much loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to many".
Harding played for North West Counties Football League (NWCFL) Premier Division side Ashton Athletic, based in Ashton-in-Makerfield in Greater Manchester.
Chairman Jimmy Whyte said everybody at the club was "devastated".
"Sam was only at our club for one season and was a huge factor in our improved form since his arrival," he said.
"He was a quiet, well-mannered young man and will be sorely missed by everyone."
'One of the best'
His former club FC United of Manchester also paid tribute to him.
Academy manager Tom Conroy said he had been "one of the best academy players we have ever had and that was proven when he was successful in England schoolboy trials, earning caps for his country".
"Sam is always spoken about to future academy players as a perfect example of the type of player we want at the club, not only with regards to... footballing ability, but the type of person he was - kind, polite, hard working and professional," he said.
"He will be sadly missed and I would like to pass my love and condolences to Sam's family."
In a tweet, NWCFL said Harding's "dedication and sheer love for the game will always be remembered", while another of his former sides, Glossop North End, said the club was "shocked and deeply saddened" by his death.
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His other former clubs, Prescot Cables and Runcorn Linnets, also tweeted tributes to him.
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Sgt Simon Degg said inquiries were in "the early stages".
"We know that there were a large number of people present at the car meet and as part of our investigation we are keen to hear from witnesses," he said.
"The same goes for anyone with any video footage from the event.
"I'd urge anyone with any information, no matter how small, to get in touch."
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