AN inquest into the tragic death of a talented young footballer has been delayed again.

Samuel Harding, 20, died after a crash at a car meet in Warrington in 2022.

An inquest was to have been held on March 5.

But, due to an ongoing police investigation, the hearing has now been put back once more.

At Cheshire Coroner’s Court on Wednesday, March 13, area coroner Victoria Davies said: “A decision has been made to suspend the inquest.

“Criminal charges are being investigated and are still ongoing.”

The inquest has now been adjourned for three months and will be reviewed on June 7, this year.

Cheshire Police were called to reports of a crash involving the driver of a black Audi 53 and Mr Harding at around 9.40pm on April 10, 2022.

It is believed both men had been attending a car meet on Kingsland Grange in Woolston.

Mr Harding, from Hazel Grove, Stockport, was taken to Warrington Hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead a short time later.

He was known to be a promising footballer and had most recently been playing for Ashton Athletic in the North West Counties Football League.

He had also taken to the field for Runcorn Linnets and FC United of Manchester, as well as being capped by England Scoolboys.

FC United of Manchester’s academy manager Tom Conroy said at the time: “Technically, Sam was one of the best academy players we have ever had, and that was proven when he was successful in England Schoolboy trials earning caps for his country.

“Sam is always spoken about to future academy planers as a perfect example of the type of player we want at the club, not only with regards to the standard of footballing ability, but the type of person he was – kind, polite, hard-working and professional.

“He will be sadly missed and I would like to pass my love and condolences to Sam’s family.”

A tribute released by his family read A tribute released by his family read: “Our beautiful son was tragically taken away from us on Sunday, April 10.

“A much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to many, we will never, ever forget you Sam and will love you forever.

“Rest in peace sweet angel, love Mum, Dad and Amy xx.”

The driver of the Audi, a 21-year-old man from Morley in Leeds, was not injured.

He was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and later released under investigation pending further enquiries.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: “The investigation is ongoing.”