Police investigating the death of a young footballer who was killed in a horror smash during a 'car meet' have issued a direct appeal to anyone who was present at the event.
Sam Harding, 20, from Stockport, was hit by an Audi S3 on an industrial estate in the Warrington area on Sunday night (April 10). He was taken to hospital but was sadly pronounced dead a short time later.
A 21-year-old man from Morley, Leeds, was arrested at the event on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has since been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
READ MORE: Heartbreaking tributes to footballer, 20, killed in 'car meet' crash
Cheshire Police have launched a full investigation into the crash, and detectives are now appealing for anyone in attendance at the 'meet' to get in touch with them. They are also appealing for anyone with footage of the event, or the collision itself, not to share it with anyone else but to send on to police as a matter of urgency.
A midfielder, Sam played non-league football with FC United, Runcorn Linnets, Glossop North End and Ashton Athletic among others and also represented England Schooboys.
In a tribute, Sam’s family said: "Our beautiful son was tragically taken away from us on Sunday 10 April 2022. A much loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to many. We will never ever forget you Sam and will love you forever. Rest in peace sweet angel, love Mum, Dad and Amy xx."
Jimmy Whyte, chairman at Ashton Athletic in Wigan, said: "Ashton Athletic are devastated to hear the news of the passing of 2021/22 first team player Sam Harding. Sam was only at our club for one season and was a huge factor in our improved form since his arrival.
"He is a quiet, well-mannered young man and he will be sorely missed by everyone at the club. All our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this terrible time."
Sam also represented England Schoolboys at under 18s level. In 2019 he featured in a special digital Panini sticker set of the England Schoolboys squad.
Sergeant Simon Degg, from the Serious and Complex Collision Investigation Unit said: "Sam’s family are absolutely devastated by his death and we are committed to doing everything we can to establish exactly what took place.
"As part our investigation I want to appeal directly to anyone who was present at the car meet and witnessed the collision, or saw the Audi prior to the incident, to get in touch.
"I’m also want to hear from anyone with any video footage from the event – both of the collision itself and before the incident. Out of respect for Sam’s family, I would also urge anyone with any video footage of the incident not to share them with anyone else, but to please send the footage to us."
Anyone with any information or video footage which may aid the investigation is asked to contact Cheshire Police at https://www.cheshire.police.uk/police-forces/cheshire-constabulary/areas/cheshire/about-us/about-us/provide-more-information-about-an-appeal/, or on 101, quoting IML 1242714.
Information can also be reported anonymously, via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
