Gary Lineker’s family are mourning the death of Jonty Parkinson (Picture: Getty)
Gary Lineker’s 18-year-old nephew Jonty Parkinson died after he was crushed by a falling tree trunk, an inquest heard.
The incident occurred on September 8 in Eaton Hastings, Oxon with Parkinson suffering a fatal injury to his abdomen while he was working as a tree surgeon.
George Lineker, 31, has paid tribute to his late cousin on social media and said that Parkinson was ‘one of the nicest boys you’ll ever meet’.
Tobias Lineker, 28, added: ‘Taken from us far too soon, rest in peace little cousin.’
The funeral was held on September 27 and a GoFundMe page was set up to help the Parkinson family ‘create a beautiful memorial’.
The Parkinson family own a business – called Sue Parkinson – which confirmed news of Jonty’s death on social media.
‘We are devastated to have to share the news that Jonty Parkinson – Bob & Ali’s son, Sue & John’s grandson and Sally’s nephew – passed away on Friday 6th September,’ an Instagram post read.
Jonty Parkinson died at the age of just 18 (Picture: @sueparkinsons)
‘As a family we wanted to share our gratitude for the huge outpouring of love we’ve received at such a difficult time.
‘The fact that our staff and customers are continuing to support our family business while we deal with this heartbreaking loss means so much to us, so thank you.
‘His funeral will be held on Friday 27th September. In light of this, our Corn Hall boutique will be closed from 1pm and our Love Lane store will be closed all day on Friday so we can all be together. Thank you for your understanding.
‘Jonty Parkinson: 30/7/2006 – 6/9/2024.’
Lineker, a sports broadcaster and former professional footballer, is yet to comment on news of his nephew’s death.
Lineker is perhaps best known for his work as a presenter on the BBC’s Match of the Day while he played for the likes of Leicester City, Tottenham and Barcelona.