Tributes have been paid to a Wigan borough teenager who has died just one day after receiving a cancer diagnosis.

Harley Edwards- Andrews was was admitted to Royal Bolton Hospital on Saturday November 8, where doctors told him he had an aggressive form of leukaemia.

Tragically, the 16-year-old passed away only the following day.

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.

placeholder image — 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.”

Two fund-raising pages have been set up to raise money for Harley’s funeral, which currently total more than £6000.

One Gofundme by Kaylee Jackson said: “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 heartbreaking 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.”

The fund-raiser by Gary Greenwood added: “His warm heart, bright smile, and love for football touched everyone who knew him. Whether he was on the field or cheering from the sidelines, the game brought him so much happiness and brought people together.

“Harley originally played for his dad's team of Leigh Town and then moved to Astley and 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.

A raffle has also been set up by the Waggon and Horses to help raise funds for the family.

Sam Hughes said: “Such a happy and innocent soul at the age of 16, as you can imagine this has caught the hearts of many parents mine included, but for a mum/dad to have to be without their child under such circumstances is truly devastating and my heart goes out to each and every one of Harley’s family.

“I will be doing some football cards, raffles and have a collection bucket at the pub to help raise funds for the family to ease any financial burden they shouldn't be having to face at this difficult time and to help with funeral costs.

"I’m asking that mine and Danny's Waggon family please dig deep and let's help this local family the best we can and give Harley the send off he truly deserves.”

To donate to the Gofundmes visit https://www.gofundme.com/en_GB/f/mmzfg3-harley-andrews and https://www.gofundme.com/en_GB/f/harley-andrews