Gary Lineker’s nephew Jonty Parkinson has died after being crushed by a falling tree turnk, aged 18.
The Match of the Day presenter’s teenage relative was involved in the fatal injury, which crushed his abdomen, while working on 6 September. His funeral took place on Friday (27 September).
An inquest into his death was opened last week, with the Oxford Coroner’s Court hearing the incident occurred in Eaton Hastings, Oxton.
Jonty’s cousins, Tobias and George Lineker, posted a tribute on social media, with the latter calling him “one of the nicest boys you’ll ever meet”.
George added: “Taken far too soon. Fly high cousin, you’ll be missed by all.”
The Instagram page of the family business, the boutique Sue Parkinson, posted a photo of Jonty, writing: “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 6 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.
A GoFundMe page has been set up in Jonty’s honour, aiming to help the family “create a beautiful memorial or event to celebrate” his life.
The page’s description reads: “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.”
More to follow