THE family of former Widnes Vikings player Liam Walsh have paid tribute to the 23-year-old after he died in a crash.

A product of the club’s academy, he made his first team debut in 2017 and made a further five appearances before departing in 2019.

Second rower Walsh was tragically killed after being hit by a car on Cronton Road, near to the junction with College Fields, shortly before midnight last Saturday, September 18.

He was rushed to Whiston Hospital, but was later pronounced dead.

His family, who are being supported by specialist officers, have now released an emotional tribute to the ‘kind and gentle soul’.

In a statement, they said: “Liam lived with his partner of eight years but stayed local, remaining close by to his close knit family.

“He was so loved and will be truly missed by all his family and friends. He was considerate, caring and touched the hearts and enriched the lives of everyone that knew him.

“We are sure that everyone will remember him with the fondest of memories.

“Liam lived life on his terms, he made friends easily and was true and supportive to each and every one of them. Liam worked as a groundworker, working with friends enjoying his job.

“He previously played rugby professionally for Widnes Vikings for two years after he had joined the club’s academy.

“Any spare time Liam had was spent with his family and friends as this is what was important to Liam.

“Liam was a kind, gentle soul with the biggest heart, he lit up any room he walked into and he was a true gentleman.

“It is a pleasure and an honour to call him our son and we will now and forever be proud of him.

“His passing leaves a gaping hole in our family that will never be filled and words cannot describe how much he will truly be missed.

“We, as a family, are devastated that we have lost our whole world. “ Anyone with any information over the collision, which involved a red Vauxhall Corsa, is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number IML1088396.