The teenage nephew of Gary Lineker has died after he was crushed by a falling tree trunk, an inquest heard.
During the opening of the inquest last week, senior coroner Darren Slater told how the 18-year-old was killed after a falling tree caused a crush injury to his abdomen whilst he was working in Eaton Hastings, Oxon, on September 6, reports the Mirror.
In a social media tribute, Jonty, born in July 2006, was called “one of the nicest boys you’ll meet” by cousin George Lineker, 31, as he shared a picture of the two of them, adding: “Taken far too soon. Fly high cousin, you’ll be missed by all.”
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 took to the family business Instagram page to share the tragic news of his death in a post last week. They said: “We are devastated to have to share the news that Jonty Parkinson – Bob & Ali’s son, Sue & John’s grandson and Sally’s nephew – passed away on Friday 6th September.
“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.”
It thanked customers for their understanding and went on to say the date of the funeral. 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,” and another posting: “Absolutely devastating news. Sending love to you all.”
A GoFundMe page was set up to help ‘create a beautiful memorial or event to celebrate the life of their much-loved son Jonty.”
The description went on to call him a “very special” and “beautiful young man” and explained: “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.”
It has so far raised £32,000 thus far in memory of Jonty who was the nephew of the Match of the Day star from his marriage to first wife Michelle Cockayne – with who he shares four children. Jonty’s mum Ali is the sister of Michelle.
A date for the full inquest has yet to be confirmed.
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