The family of an 18-year-old boxing champion who died in a road collision in Morecambe have paid tribute to their 'caring and beautiful boy'.
Leo Mountain died after he was hit by an HGV on the Bay Gateway between Mellishaw Lane and Northgate on Easter Sunday, shortly after 3am.
In a statement released by Lancashire Police, Leo’s mum said: “It is with massively heavy hearts that we: Lee, Lewis, Olivia and myself let people know that our youngest has decided to stay 18 forever.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for every single message and call, you’ll never know what it means.
“Our boy was the most handsome, funny, dopy, hardworking, caring, beautiful boy.
“Sleep tight our bambino.”
Leo was a talented amateur boxer at Coastal boxing club in Morecambe, and last September became North West Regional Champion.
A fundraiser set up in his memory by boxing referee and coach Steve Tallo-Brady has, to date, raised more than £6780.
"Thank you to all that have contributed, the response has simply been astonishing," said a spokesperson for Coastal boxing.
"This has been shared and supported by clubs all over, with contributions and shares as far south in England as Brighton and as far north as the border clubs in our own region, also in Scotland, Wales and Ireland, which is a testament to the sport of boxing.
"Many people outside of boxing from our local community, who just want to contribute at this time have come forward too, amazing!
"Steve Tallo-Brady is hosting a spar day in Leo's memory, which Coastal ABC will be attending. We'd love as many clubs as possible to come and give tribute to Leo."
The spar day is now taking place on Saturday May 3 at Tameside Elite Boxing Academy in Stalybridge.
"Leo was a fantastic young man, an absolute credit to himself and his family," said the Coastal spokesperson.
"Every boxer, coach and supporter had nothing but love for Leo, he was one of those people you couldn’t help but love. He had an infectious personality and brought laughter and light to every room.
“In boxing terms, Leo most recently became a North West Region champion, which we know he, his family and the club took great pride in. He was a very talented boxer, had a great attitude and loved to box.
“Leo had a champion’s heart in and out of the ring.
“To think his cheeky smile, his jokes and his presence won’t be seen any longer is just unthinkable. He had so much to offer this world, his journey had only just started.
“Leo, you are a son, grandson, brother, friend, gentleman, fighter and boxer. You’re respected by many, loved by many and … a champion. Forever in our hearts and minds, you’ll always be missed.
“All the club’s thoughts are with Leo’s family. We can’t imagine what they’re going through.”
Officers investigating the collision are continuing to appeal for any information or footage that could assist their enquiries.
People with information or footage are asked to contact 101 or email the Serious Collision Investigation Unit at SCIU@lancashire.police.uk - quoting log 0160 of 20th April.
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