Balloons released in moving tribute to Wigan dad and rugby player

The sky over Wigan lit up on Saturday as friends and loved ones paid tribute to 22-year-old Dylan Woodhead.

He died on Friday, January 8 after being found in his cell at HMP Hindley.

Prison staff and paramedics tried to revive him but he could not be saved.

An inquest, which was opened at Bolton Coroner’s Court on Friday, heard he died from hanging.

It was adjourned until a future date, when a full hearing will be held to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.

Dylan was a former pupil at Rose Bridge High School in Ince and had a baby daughter named Willow.

He was a keen sportsman and previously played for Ince Rose Bridge Rugby Club and Spring View ARLFC.

In a statement on Facebook, Ince Rose Bridge said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dylan Woodhead, a former Ince Rose Bridge player. The club would like to pass on its sincerest condolences to his family and friends at this sad time.”

Spring View said: “RIP Dylan Woodhead....fly high mate!! Thoughts are with your family at this sad time!!”

Friends and family commented on the Facebook posts to pay their respects to Dylan.

His mum Kelly Mcnamara said: “Thank u for ur kind words at this sad time we are truly overwhelmed by everyone’s kindness xx”

Richard Ackers said: “Cracking rugby player. Top lad. Think he scored a hat-trick that day against us. Rest in peace. From me and all at Bolton Mets. Shocked.”

Mark Heaton said: “I have to say for the two years he played for me at view I was very close to him and I loved him too. He gave everything on that field for us, he was a warrior and we will always hold him close in our hearts.”

Natalie Gallagher said: “RIP Dylan, Thinking of all his family & friends at this terribly sad time.”

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