Gary Lineker's nephew, 18, killed by falling tree trunk
Gary Lineker's nephew has died at the age of 18 after being crushed by a falling trunk, an inquest heard. Tributes poured in for Jonty Parkinson who was killed while working.
He suffered a crush injury to his abdomen and was killed by a falling tree in Eaton Hastings, Oxfordshire, on September 6. His devastated family has since paid tribute, describing him as 'one of the nicest boys you'll ever meet'.
A fundraiser launched in the wake of his death has since raised £32,000. Cousin George Lineker - the son of Match of the Day star Gary - shared a tribute on social media.
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The 31-year-old posted a picture of himself with Jonty when he was younger with a caption that read: "One of the nicest boys you'll meet, taken far too soon. Fly high cousin, you'll be missed by all."
His brother Tobias Lineker, 28, posted an old picture of the teen smiling and added: "Taken from us far too soon, rest in peace little cousin."
Sue Parkinson, from the family firm, took to its Instagram page to share the tragic news of Jonty's death, Mirror reports. A post last week read: "We are devastated to have to share the news that Jonty Parkinson - Bob & Ali’s son, Sue and John’s grandson and Sally’s nephew - passed away on Friday, September 6.
"As a family we wanted to share our gratitude for the huge outpouring of love we’ve received at such a difficult time. The fact that our staff and customers are continuing to support our family business while we deal with this heartbreaking loss means so much to us, so thank you."
Followers rushed to the comment section to share their condolences, with one person writing: "So very sorry to hear. Sending so much love to you all." Another said: "Absolutely devastating news. Sending love to you all."
A GoFundMe page was set up to help the family 'create a beautiful memorial or event to celebrate the life of their much-loved son'. On the page, Jonty was described as 'very special' and a 'beautiful young man'.
It read: "I realise money can’t fill the great chasm of loss they are feeling, but I hope it can be used to ease the burden of funeral expenses or go towards a fitting memorial for Jonty." Jonty was the nephew of former footballer Gary, 63, from his marriage to first wife Michelle Cockayne - with who he shares four children.
Jonty's mum Ali - who is the former partner of rugby legend Will Carling - is the sister of Michelle. Senior coroner Darren Slater opened the inquest at Oxford Coroner's Court last week.
A date for the full inquest has yet to be confirmed.