BALLOONS and candles are among the items which have been left in tribute to a 14-year-old boy who was killed in a crash in Golborne.

The 14-year-old, who has been named locally as Leo Gradwell, died after the collision which took place on Friday, October 11.

Touching tributes have been left at the scene over the weekend.

Leigh Journal:

One reads: "Leo I love you so much. I'll always think of you and you'll never be forgotten. Lots of love, your baby sister".

Leigh Journal:

The teenage boy was behind the wheel of a suspected stolen car when he became involved in a chase with police.

Officers attempted to stop the blue Fiat 500 on Warrington Road shortly before 1.30pm on Friday, October 11.

A ‘short pursuit’ followed, ending when the vehicle collided with two cars on Ashton Road.

The teenage driver was rushed to hospital but died in the early hours of Saturday.

Two other boys aged 14 and 15, who were travelling in the car at the time, were also taken to hospital.

While the 14-year-old suffered minor injuries and has since been discharged, the 15-year-old remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition.

Greater Manchester Police has referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Leigh Journal:

Sergeant Jon McColl, of GMP’s serious collision investigation Unit, said: “First and foremost, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the boy who passed away this morning.

“The serious collision investigation unit is continuing with enquiries so that the full circumstances surrounding the collision can be established.

“Given the brief pursuit that developed prior to the collision, we have referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct – which is in line with normal policy.”

Following the incident, a spokesperson for the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said: “We have begun an independent investigation following a Greater Manchester Police pursuit yesterday (October 11).

"The incident, which happened on Ashton Road in Golborne at around 1.25 pm, followed reports of a vehicle being driven erratically.

"After being notified by GMP we sent investigators to the scene.

"We understand, at this time, that a short pursuit took place before the vehicle collided with another car. Sadly a 14-year-old boy who was in the vehicle died in hospital this morning (October 12) from his injuries sustained in the collision.

"We have made initial contact with the boy’s family to explain our involvement and express our condolences. Anyone who witnessed events leading up to the collision is asked to contact the IOPC on 0800 096 9070 or email: witness@policeconduct.gov.uk.”