Police issue witness appeal following Jordan Welsby's death

Jordan, 26, died in hospital last Thursday after being knocked down by a car on Prescot Road, St Helens late on Boxing Day.

The driver of the car stopped at the scene.

Jordan was a talented half-back who played for Blackbrook's open age team. In an emotional tribute released on New Year's Eve, the club confirmed he had died

Jordan Welsby

Jordan Welsby

Merseyside Police this morning appealed for information about the incident, which happened opposite the Eccleston Arms pub, where it is believed Jordan had spent time that evening.

The police statement read: "We are appealing for information following a collision involving a car and a pedestrian on Prescot Road in St Helens.

"We were contacted at around 11pm on Saturday, December 26 following reports of the collision.

"The pedestrian, a man in his 20s, was taken to hospital with serious injuries. He has since sadly passed away in hospital.

"The driver of the car stopped at the scene and is assisting with enquiries.

"Officers are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Prescot Road who saw the collision or has any information which could assist the investigation to call the Roads Policing Unit on 0151 777 5747, message our social media desk @MerPolCC, or call 101 quoting reference number 20000784830."

Flowers and touching tributes ave been left in Jordan's memory at the scene of the tragedy.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help fund funeral costs and has already generated more than £14,500.

A signed Blackbrook jersey is among the tributes

A statement on the fundraising page read: "The extremely popular Jordan Welsby was involved in a tragic accident on Boxing night and after an extremely brave fight he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

"We are trying to raise funds to help his parents Nicky and Tony, brother Callum, girlfriend Laura and all the Welsby family give him the send off he deserves.

"Any donation how ever small will be greatly appreciated to help the family at this heartbreaking time.

"RIP Jordy our friend."

Tributes and messages of condolence have been sent by sporting clubs across St Helens and the North West.

Police have appealed for witnesses

In a statement Blackbrook ARLFC, the famous St Helens amateur club said it was "heartbroken" by the tragedy.

Brook described Jordan "as everybody's friend" who had "an infectious personality" and would always stay behind at the club's Boardmans Lane base after games to socialise with his team-mates.

He was also said to be popular among the players from other clubs within the town.

The statement added: "Jordan will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. Our hearts and sincere condolences go out to his parents Nicky and Tony his brother Callum his loving girlfriend Laura and all his friends and family."

Jordan was a talented half back, who toured Jamaica with Barla under 23s in 2016.

He came through the ranks at the Royals and made his first team debut in April 2011 at Shevington when he was still an under 18s player.

The club added: "He went on to play over a 100 games, many with his brother Callum, scoring 37 tries and kicking 74 goals.

"He played his part in probably one of the most important games in the club's recent history the 24-23 victory at Askam in the 2016 NCL play-off Final."