AN INQUEST into the death of a promising footballer has been delayed.

Samuel Robert Harding died after a crash at a car meet in Warrington in 2022.

Due to an ongoing investigation, the inquest into Mr Harding’s death has now been adjourned until next year.

At Cheshire Coroner's Court this morning (August 23) area coroner Victoria Davies set a date of March 5 for the inquest.

READ MORE: Football clubs pay tribute to promising and exemplary player who died after collision

Cheshire Police were called to reports of a crash involving a black Audi S3 and Mr Harding at around 9.40pm on April 10, 2022.

It is believed both had been attending a car meet on Kingsland Grange in Woolston.

Mr Harding, from Stockport, was taken to Warrington Hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

He was known to be a promising footballer and had most recently been playing for Ashton Athletic in the North West Counties Football League.

He had also taken to the field for Runcorn Linnets and FC United of Manchester, as well as being capped by England Schoolboys.

FC United of Manchester’s academy manager Tom Conroy said at the time: “Technically, Sam was one of the best academy players we have ever had, and that was proven when he was successful in England Schoolboy trials earning caps for his country.

“Sam is always spoken about to future academy players as a perfect example of the type of player we want at the club, not only with regards to the standard of footballing ability, but the type of person he was – kind, polite, hard-working and professional.

“He will be sadly missed, and I would like to pass my love and condolences to Sam's family.”

A tribute released by his family read: “Our beautiful son was tragically taken away from us on Sunday, April 10.

“A much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to many, we will never, ever forget you Sam and will love you forever.

“Rest in peace sweet angel, love Mum, Dad and Amy xx.”

The driver of the Audi, a 21-year-old man from Morley in Leeds, was not injured.

He was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and later released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Cheshire Police was contacted on Wednesday (August 23) but say there is no further update.