AN appeal in memory of an amateur rugby league player who died in a road tragedy has already generated more than £14,500.
The GoFundMe page was set up by friends of Jordan Welsby, who died following the incident on Boxing Day.
Jordan, who played for Blackbrook ARLFC, was involved in the road tragedy on Prescot Road, St Helens at about 11pm on Saturday, December 26.
He died in hospital on Thursday, December 31, the rugby league club said.
A statement on the fundraising page read: "The extremely popular Jordan Welsby was involved in a tragic accident on Boxing night and after an extremely brave fight he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
"We are trying to raise funds to help his parents Nicky and Tony, brother Callum, girlfriend Laura and all the Welsby family give him the send off he deserves.
"Any donation how ever small will be greatly appreciated to help the family at this heartbreaking time.
"RIP Jordy our friend."
Floral tributes left at the scene
Tributes and messages of condolence have been sent by sporting clubs across St Helens and the North West.
And donations have subsequently poured in for the appeal that will aim to cover funeral costs and give Jordan a "fitting send off".
Jordan was a talented sportsman who had represented the British Amateur Rugby League Association.
The Blackbrook club said it had been left "heartbroken".
The club said he had fought a battle with his injuries but finally passed away on Thursday.
Floral tributes, a signed Blackbrook rugby shirt and pictures have been left on Prescot Road, opposite the Eccleston Arms pub.
An appeal for witnesses board by Merseyside Police was also tied to a lamppost.
Brook described Jordan "as everybody's friend" who had "an infectious personality" and would always stay behind at the club's Boardmans Lane base after games to socialise with his team-mates.
The tragedy happened outside the Eccleston Arms at about 11pm on Boxing Day
The statement added: "Jordan will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him our hearts and sincere condolences go out to his parents Nicky and Tony his brother Callum his loving girlfriend Laura and all his friends and family."
In a final tribute, the famous amateur club added: "RIP Jordan: Once a Brooker always a Brooker."
To support the appeal click here
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here