TRIBUTES have been paid to a 16-year-old boy with a "warm heart and bright smile" who died just one day after receiving a leukaemia diagnosis.
Harley Edwards-Andrews passed away on Sunday (November 9), the day after he was admitted to Royal Bolton Hospital, where doctors told him he had an aggressive form of the cancer.
Announcing the tragic news, Harley's former rugby club Leigh East posted: A post by Harley’s former rugby club Leigh East said: “Leigh East are heartbroken having to announce the passing of one of our former juniors Harley Edwards-Andrews.
“Harley played for our Bears team from U12-U14s and will be missed by all who knew him
“Our condolences go out to Harley’s mum Gemma, dad Kevin, his family, his friends and former team mates
“Once an East lad, always an East lad, RIP Harley.”
Harley, who had also played football at Leigh Town and Astley & Tyldesley FC, was described as someone who was "well-liked" and who "never complained".
Fundraising pages have been launched to fund Harley's funeral and give his heartbroken family space to grieve without extra financial stress.
A Go Fund me page, started by Kaycee Jackson, states: "No parent should ever have to face such unimaginable pain, and no family should have to worry about financial burdens while grieving the loss of their child.
"We are raising funds to help Gemma and her family with funeral costs, time away from work, and any other expenses they face during this heart-breaking time.
"Harley was a bright, kind, and loving young soul who touched the hearts of everyone who knew him. His passing has left an incredible void in our community.
"Please consider donating — no matter the amount — to help ease some of the financial strain on this grieving family. Your support, love, and prayers mean more than words can express."
Meanwhile, another fundraising page, started by Gary Greenwood, says: "We are heartbroken to share that Harley Andrews, just 16 years old, passed away suddenly on November 9 after trying to fight off leukaemia.
"His warm heart, bright smile, and love for football touched everyone who knew him. Whether he was on the field or cheering from the side-lines, the game brought him so much happiness and brought people together."
It adds: "Harley originally played for his dad's team of Leigh Town and then moved to Astley & Tyldesley FC in January 2023 and was a fundamental part of the team in achieving a league and cup double in 2024. He was well-liked by all involved in the game, especially his best friends Dylan and Liam. He was also one of those players that picked himself up and just got on with it, never complained.
"We are raising funds to help Harley’s family with funeral expenses and to give them space to grieve without added financial stress. Any contribution, no matter how small, means the world during this difficult time.
"Thank you for keeping Harley and his family in your thoughts and prayers."
- Donate to the fundraising pages on bit.ly/4pbw3fw and bit.ly/4i16trc
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