Family’s tribute to teen with ‘infectious giggle’ after road tragedy

George Wharton one of the boys who died in the Morley crash.

Friends George Wharton, 14, and 13-year-old Rhys Baker were fatally injured when the car they were in left the A62 Gelderd Road in Morley and hit a tree on Saturday, March 7.

Two other passengers, 14-year-old Kameron Walters, and Joshua Van Veen, 15, and driver Tom McMeekin, 21, remain in hospital after suffering serious injuries.

Tributes have flooded in for the two boys who died and a fundraising effort has now been launched in their honour.

George’s mum, Sharon Hull, said her son was “adored” by his family.

She said: “George was a clever, cheeky and bubbly young man – always singing and humming everywhere he went.

“His infectious giggle could light up any room. He loved life and lived every minute to the full. We adored him and we will all miss him terribly.”

She added: “This past week has been a nightmare, made ever so slightly easier by the warm messages of friends, family and total strangers alike.

“I would like to thank everyone for their best wishes, cards, flowers and donation. The family would also like to take this time to thank the Morley Academy and West Yorkshire Police for their continuing support.”

Investigations into the incident are continuing and police have called on the public to refrain from speculating about what happened.

An inquest was expected to be opened and adjourned this morning.

Meanwhile, an appeal has been launched to raise money to support George and Ryan’s family following their deaths.

George’s brother-in-law, Ieuan Solanki, who set up the online appeal, said: “People spend time planning and saving for their own funeral, but they don’t plan to bury their child.

“I am aware from personal experience how expensive funerals can be and I wanted to help alleviate the financial pressure during this period of mourning.

“I know that the community in Morley and the surrounding areas are all feeling the pain, and many people want to help both families in whatever way they can - it is my hope that this fundraising page will provide an opportunity for those people to do so and leave a message for the families.”

To contribute visit www.gofundme.com.