Tribute paid to Cornard United footballer killed in Sudbury car crash

Cornard United described Sam Parsons as "a stalwart in the under-18s team"

Tributes have been paid to a 17-year-old footballer who was killed in a car crash.

Sam Parsons played for Cornard United Under-18s, in Great Cornard, Suffolk, with the team coached by his father, Jem Bird.

The crash happened on Sudbury Road, in Sudbury at about 23:15 GMT on Saturday.

Tom Clark, the club's chairman, said his death was a "huge shock" and he was "a lovely young lad" and that support was being offered to his team-mates.

Sam Parsons was a loyal supporter of the club, its chairman said

Mr Clark said Sam had been involved with the club, along with his father, Mr Bird, for "several years" and attended "every game".

"He was a lovely young lad," Mr Clark said.

"Him and his dad have been a great help to the club over the years."

A minute's silence will be held before Tuesday's first-team match against Whitton United.

"It's important we get our arms around people and look after people and offer any support as we can as a club," Mr Clark said.

• Teenager dies after car crashes into tree

He said that Thursday night's under-18s game had been postponed.

"I don't think it would be fitting or right to carry on that fixture and the Suffolk FA have been very good getting it rearranged," he said.

The club said on its Facebook page that Sam was "a stalwart in the under 18s team" and its thoughts and love "go out to the family at this incredibly difficult time".

Police said a 17-year-old boy had died after the car he was travelling in crashed into a tree.