Friends rally to support Jay McLaren's family
Teammates from the Sunderland dad's football club have started fundraising, following the 28-year-old's death
Last updated 29th Dec 2017
Friends have paid tribute to Sunderland dad, Jay McLaren, whose body was found at a recycling site in Houghton on Christmas Eve.
A fundraising page has been launched to try and support Jay's fiance and 2-year-old daughter, following the 28-year-old's death.
Jay had been reported missing by his family on December 23, after he didn't come home from a night out in Sunderland.
The last confirmed sighting of Jay was at 4:15 am outside Arizona and Purple bar on December 23rd.
Now, his Sunday league team, Kings Arms FC, say they want to create a memorial fund to help with the funeral costs and provide some support for Jay's daughter in the future.
In a statement on the memorial page, they said:
""We want to ease the financial burden that comes with losing someone so suddenly. We have to say goodbye and are hoping to raise funds to go towards the cost of his funeral. This memorial fund will hopefully help to take care of this and perhaps help establish a small nest egg for his daughters future. Any donation, no matter how small is greatly appreciated. Although broken, we thank you with all of our hearts. We miss you Jay, from all your team mates at Kings Arms FC. RIP Mac."
The league his club played in also paid tribute. Sunderland Sunday League said:
"We are absolutely devastated to announce the passing of Jay McLaren. All our thoughts are with Jay’s fiancé, daughter, family and friends at this extremely sad time. RIP Jay - you will never be forgotten.
"We will be donating all Total Sport Challenge Cup entry fees and all money raised at all of this seasons cup finals to Jay McLaren’s fiancé & family. RIP Jay"
Teammate Dan Padget was one of many tributes on Facebook. He said:
"A cracking lad and such a heartbreaking loss. RIP Mac."
Paul Tunstall said:
"Jay was our captain and great lad too. He loved his football; his passion and leadership will be sorely missed. RIP Mac.”
In a statement, Northumbria Police said:
"Jay’s family are being supported by specialist officers and wish to send a message to drinkers and partygoers to stay safe on a night out, particularly as New Year’s Eve approaches. They’re urging people to stay together and keep an eye out for friends."