Fundraiser launched for teenage cyclist killed in crash with bus as tributes paid to 'lovely young lad'

A fundraiser has been launched for a 'lovely young lad' who died after he was knocked down by a bus in North Lanarkshire last night.

Emergency services rushed to Baird Terrace in Harthill after cyclist Jay Gallacher was struck at around 8.10pm on Saturday, June 5.

Ambulance crews attended but the 15-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following the tragic news tributes have been paid to the youngster, while a GoFundMe crowdfunding page has been set up to help Jay's family pay for his funeral costs.

The 15-year-old, named locally as Jay Gallacher, was hit by a bus while riding a bike (Facebook)

Organiser Heather Mein said: "Sadly on the evening of Saturday the 5th of June Jay Gallacher, aged 15, tragically passed away in his home town.

"A lovely young lad, who was loved by many and will be sorely missed.

"With the permission of the family I have set up this page to raise funds towards his send off or use towards a memorial.

"Please give what you can. Many thanks xx"

Jay’s cousin thanked the community for paying respects.

Taking to Facebook he said: "Absolutely devastated, got the worst news this morning that my wee cousin Jay had passed away last night due to an accident. Really gonna miss annoying ye when I’m through.

"Rest easy cuz you’re in a better place now until we meet again."

A devastated friend said: "I heard the worst news yesterday that one of my best friends Jay Gallacher had past and it still feels like a dream to me that he isn't here but he is still with us watching down on us all.

"Fly high mate see you when am up there."

The incident happened on Baird Terrace near the junction with Church Street in Harthill (Google Maps)

Another said: "Rest easy Jay Gallacher gone far too soon.

"Thoughts with Jay's family and my wee brother and his friends."

A third added: "R.I.P Jay sleep tight wee man, taken far too soon."

Meanwhile a message on the Harthill Community page read: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Jay Gallacher following the tragic accident on Church Street yesterday evening.

"We are sure the thoughts of everyone in the village is with them at this time also."

The fundraiser for Jay's funeral has already reached over £1,500. To donate, click here.

The 58-year-old female driver of the bus, which had been heading down travelling south on Church Street at the time of the incident, was taken to Wishaw General Hospital as a precaution.

Roads Policing Officers are appealing for information from the public after the horror accident.

Sergeant Ryan McAuley said: “A teenager has lost his life as a result of this collision and our thoughts at this time are with his family and friends.

"It is imperative that we establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

“A number of people were in the area at the time and we are asking those who have not already spoken to police to get in contact with us.

“You may also have dash-cam footage and we would ask you to check back and come forward with it.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police via 101, quoting incident number 3610 of Saturday, June 5.

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