Tributes paid to talented footballer who died on the M67

Tributes have been pouring in for a teenager who died, after being found unconcious on the M67 near Hyde.

Samuel Berkley, who was 14, was hit by a car during the rush hour on Friday evening.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services he sadly died in hospital a few hours after being found on the hard shoulder.

The driver of the car did stop at the scene and spoke with police.

The teenager was a talented footballer who had recently started playing for Hattersley FC.

In a statement online, club Chairman Mark Hunt says,

"This is probably the hardest thing I've ever had to do in my role at this club and it is written with a heavy heart. Yesterday afternoon one of our under 15's Jets players was involved in a collision on the M67 and has sadly passed away in the early hours.

"a nicer lad you could never meet"

"The player is Sam Berkley who I have met several times and a nicer lad you could never meet, myself and everyone at the club would like to send our condolences to his family and will be here if needed by anybody. RIP Sam."

In a message posted on Facebook by Stephen reads,

"Sam you’re still my best mate no matter what. You’ll be in everyone’s hearts forever. You will be missed by all your family and friends. I miss you already. You can still play football up there."

Sam went to Audenshaw School with many friends and lived at home in Denton with his parents Sarah and Gary.

He has a big brother called Scott, 21, and an older sister called Charlie, 20, and had just become an uncle to his brother’s new baby, Lilly.

The family say they're heartbroken, and although nothing will ever replace losing Sam they hope everyone remembers him for the fun, outgoing and friendly boy he will always be.