'18 forever': Mum's heartbreaking tribute to 'very talented' young boxer who died in crash tragedy

'Leo had a champion’s heart in and out of the ring'

The mum of a young boxing champion has paid a heartbreaking tribute to 'most handsome' boy.

Leo Mountain, 18, died after being struck by an HGV on the A623 Bay Gateway in Morecambe, shorrtly after 3am in the early hours of Easter Sunday (April 20).

Emergency services raced to the scene, between Mellishaw Lane and Northgate, but Leo, a pedestrian, died at the scene.

His mum has now released an emotional tribute to her son.

In a statement issued through Lancashire Police, she said: "“It is with massively heavy hearts that we: Lee, Lewis, Olivia and myself let people know that our youngest has decided to stay 18 forever.

“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for every single message and call, you’ll never know what it means.

“Our boy was the most handsome, funny, dopy, hardworking, caring, beautiful boy.

“Sleep tight our bambino.”

Leo was a talented young boxer who had recently been crowned a regional champion. He was a member of the Coastal Boxing Club in Morecambe.

The club have also paid tribute to him, saying he had a 'champion's heart in and out of the ring.'

They said: “Leo was a fantastic young man, an absolute credit to himself and his family. Every boxer, coach and supporter had nothing but love for Leo, he was one of those people you couldn’t help but love.

"He had an infectious personality and brought laughter and light to every room.

“In boxing terms, Leo most recently became a North West Region champion, which we know he, his family and the club took great pride in.

"He was a very talented boxer, had a great attitude and loved to box.

“Leo had a champion’s heart in and out of the ring.

“To think his cheeky smile, his jokes and his presence won’t be seen any longer is just unthinkable. He had so much to offer this world, his journey had only just started.

“Leo, you are a son, grandson, brother, friend, gentleman, fighter and boxer. You’re respected by many, loved by many and … a champion. Forever in our hearts and minds, you’ll always be missed.

“All the club’s thoughts are with Leo’s family. We can’t imagine what they’re going through.”

Lancashire Police are continuing to investigate the fatal collision.

PC Daniel Brown, from the force's Road Policing Unit said: “Our thoughts remain with Leo’s family and loved ones at this devastating time.

“Leo very sadly lost his life in this collision, and we’re continuing to appeal for any information or footage that could assist our enquiries.

“If you can help, please get in touch with us.”

Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact the force on 101 quoting log number 0160 of April 20.