AFC Fylde pay tribute to "gifted" 17-year-old footballer who died after being electrocuted at the weekend

Tributes have been paid to a "gifted" 17-year-old footballer who died after being electrocuted at a football ground in Euxton at the weekend.
AFC Fylde said: "Luke was a kind, popular young man who was much loved by his teammates and coaches. He was somebody who could instantly light up a room with his bubbly personality." Pic: AFC FyldeAFC Fylde said: "Luke was a kind, popular young man who was much loved by his teammates and coaches. He was somebody who could instantly light up a room with his bubbly personality." Pic: AFC Fylde
AFC Fylde said: "Luke was a kind, popular young man who was much loved by his teammates and coaches. He was somebody who could instantly light up a room with his bubbly personality." Pic: AFC Fylde

Luke Bennett died after he was electrocuted at Euxton Villa FC's ground in Runshaw Hall Lane shortly after 6pm on Saturday (March 6).

It is believed that the teenager had been trying to retrieve a ball from a pond with a metal pole when he accidentally touched an overhead power line.

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Two other teenagers were injured and taken to the Royal Preston Hospital suffering from burns, but are not said to be seriously hurt.

Luke had been a youth footballer at AFC Fylde and the club has today issued a statement following the young man's tragic death.

The club said the 17-year-old had been a "gifted footballer" and a "kind and popular young man" who would "light up a room with his bubbly personality".

"It is with deep sadness and sorrow that we must share the tragic news that AFC Fylde youth player Luke Bennett has passed away at the age of 17," said the club.

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"Learning the news on Saturday evening has left us absolutely devastated and heartbroken.

"All our love goes out to Luke’s family and friends at this cruel and difficult time.

"Above all, Luke was a kind, popular young man who was much loved by his teammates and coaches. He was somebody who could instantly light up a room with his bubbly personality.

"Then, on the field, he was a naturally gifted footballer who excelled every time he represented AFC Fylde.

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"The pain of Luke’s sudden and untimely passing will be felt by our football club, supporters and all who ever had the pleasure of knowing him.

"Rest in peace, “Lukey B”. The memory of you will always be in our hearts."

Lancashire Police say an investigation into Luke's death is under way and the force is asking anyone with information to get in contact.

On Saturday, Insp John McNamara said: "This appalling incident has led to the tragic death of a young man and my thoughts are first and foremost with his family and loved ones at this time. The family are being supported by specially trained officers.

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"An investigation is underway and remains in its very early stages but I would appeal to anyone who has any information to get in touch with us by calling 101 and quoting log 1241 of March 6th."

UK football clubs pay tribute to Luke Bennett

Football clubs from across Britain have paid tribute to Luke, including Blackpool FC, Wigan Athletic and Chorley FC.

Blackpool FC said: "Devastating news. The thoughts of all at Blackpool FC Academy are with Luke’s family, friends and all at AFC Fylde."

Wigan Athletic said: "Sending our condolences and thoughts to Luke’s family, friends and everyone at AFC Fylde."

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Chorley FC said: "Sending sincere condolences from the coaches, players and backroom staff of the Chorley FC Player Pathway."

Ipswich Town said: "The thoughts of everyone at Ipswich Town are with Luke’s family and friends and all at AFC Fylde."

Barrow AFC said: "We're so sorry to hear this tragic news and our deepest condolences are with Luke's family, friends and everyone connected with AFC Fylde."

Salford City FC, owned by former Man Utd stars Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Gary and Phil Neville, said: "Our condolences to the family and friends of Luke, and everyone at the club."

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