'He was a special person, with a heart of gold...' tributes pour in for lad who died in horror car crash

A football club has paid touching tribute to a journalism graduate who died in a horrific car crash. And a rugby club he played for as a junior has revealed details of a gathering on Friday evening to celebrate his life.

Ramsbottom United FC said the club was 'truly devastated' by the death of Will Place, 23, who was a member of the club's media team and a former assistant secretary.

In a Facebook post, the club said his passing would 'leave a huge hole'. "His infectious smile, compelling laugh and an engaging, cheery and funny demeanour made him a hugely popular member of the Rammy family," said the post.

Mr Place was pronounced dead after a car he was driving ploughed into a pub in Heywood and erupted into flames in the early hours of Monday morning. He had only recently graduated in sports journalism and had spent the evening celebrating England's knock-out Euro 2024 victory against Slovakia. He died after a Dacia Sandero hit the White Lion pub on York Street in Heywood at around 3.15am.

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The crash, which occurred after police officers in a patrol car had attempted to stop the vehicle on nearby Bolton Road moments before, sparked a huge blaze, with fire crews racing to attend.

His mother, Beverley Place, a councillor in Heywood and a former mayor of Rochdale, issued a tribute to her son saying he made 'the worst decision of his life' and 'paid the ultimate price'.

"Will was adored by all that knew him," she said. "He was a special person, with a heart of gold, who lit up every room with his infectious smile and personality. We are all left utterly bereft and heartbroken. We are grateful for the outpouring of grief, love and support we have received from his innumerable friends."

Ramsbottom United said Mr Place joined the club in October, 2021, initially being a part of the Roch Valley Radio set-up. From there, he the joined the club's media team.

The club's statement added: "A hugely likable character, he would become a regular at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium for some two years, undertaking a great many facets including match report writing, interviews with players and management and cutting highlights as well as joining club secretary Tony Cunningham as his assistant.

"He would remain with the club until late 2023 until the pressure of juggling his university studies, running a small delivery business, managing a local football team as well as continuing with his position with the Rams and working alongside his grandfather on a farm, so took the decision to step down.

"However, he did remain a firm Ramsbottom United supporter and regular visitor, whilst also following his boyhood club, Manchester City. The thoughts of everyone at Ramsbottom United Football Club go to his family and friends at this desperately sad time."

Rochdale-based rugby league club Mayfield paid tribute to a 'superb young man', saying Mr Place had a passion for Manchester City, rugby league and sport in general.

In a Facebook post, the club said: "Rochdale Mayfield would like to send their condolences, thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of former Mayfield Youth player Will Place, who has sadly passed away aged 23. He had huge enthusiasm about sport and had just graduated in sports journalism.

"May his family and friends find strength, peace, comfort and courage as they navigate through this very difficult time. There will be gathering for Will tomorrow (Friday) evening on Hopwood Park, Heywood, at 6.30pm."

Watchdog the Independent Office for Police Conduct has confirmed it has launched an investigation into the tragedy.