Thousands raised in memory of Tameside school boy killed on M67
14-year-old Samuel Berkley was found unconscious on the hard shoulder.
Last updated 4th Dec 2017
Thousands of pounds has been raised in memory of a 14-year-old boy from Tameside who was killed on the M67.
Samuel Berkley was found unconscious on the hard shoulder during Friday's rush hour after being hit by a car. An investigation is underway into the circumstances.
More than £2,700 has been donated to a JustGiving page in less than 24 hours which will go towards the cost of his funeral.
Audenshaw School where Sam was a pupil has closed early as a mark of respect and will be offering students and staff counselling to come to terms with the tragedy.
The school posted this statement on its website...
Meanwhile Sam's football club, Hattersley FC, has expressed an interest in holding a charity match to raise further funds for his family.
Manager Steve O'Donaghue has paid tribute to him: "He was a really, really good asset to the club. He fitted in so well with the lads and made friends easily - it feels like he's been here forever. The lads loved him and we loved him playing for the club.
"I went to look at the flowers laid by his friends and all that did was reinforce what I already knew about him; that he was a fun guy with lots of friends and he was easy to be around.
"I came out of my local supermarket this morning and I was wearing my football shirt and a stranger stopped me to say how sorry they were about what has happened. I've had so many messages of condolence from clubs, players, managers and parents.
"I hope they can be some sort of comfort to his mum and dad - it's been overwhelming."