York City fans are being urged to join in a tribute to two footie mad youngsters who died in a double tragedy this week.
The two 17-year-old boys were killed in a three-car collision on the A61 between Busby Stoop and Carlton Miniott near Thirsk at 9.25pm on Wednesday (March 7).
A further five people and two children were taken to hospital. An 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy remain in a critical condition in hospital.
Now one of the heartbroken friends of the lads who died has revealed that the pair, whose names have not yet been released, were big York City fans.
And Tom Stokell wants supporters to pay tribute with 60 seconds applause on the 17th minute of Saturday’s home match against Boston United.
‘I loved them both’
Tom described the duo as his “two best mates”. He told YorkMix:
They were two harmless lads that wouldn’t do anything wrong, and always had my back from day one.
Two huge footie fans and I loved them both. Every time I go out I have to walk past one of their houses and it just breaks me to think he is not there and that I will never see either of them again.
Tom said he had got them into going to York City. They had “been going for six years and they loved it”.
Among those offering their condolences was City star Adriano Moke who tweeted: “R.I.P to the two young York City supporters. My thoughts are with their family.”
And the Shooting Towards The Shippo Podcast are also behind the campaign.
Police make arrest
On Friday (March 9) North Yorkshire Police said they had arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with the fatal collision.
He was the driver of the green VW Bora in which the boys were rear seat passengers. It collided with a black Ford Focus.
Officers are continuing to appeal for people to come forward to assist the investigation, including witnesses to the actual collision, anyone who recalls seeing any of the vehicles involved prior to the incident, and anyone who may have dash-cam footage that could help with enquiries.
How to help the police
| Call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for the Major Collision Investigation Team |
| Email the Major Collision Investigation Team here | |
| Quote reference number 12180039673 |