"He touched more hearts than many do in a lifetime": Tributes to teen, 19, killed in horrific crash at Astley Raceway

The devastated family of a teenager who tragically died after 'losing control' of a motorcycle at an off-road track in Tyldesley have paid tribute to him.

Josh Sharpe, described as a much-loved 'son, brother and loving partner’, was 'enjoying himself' on his bike at the race track on Morley's Lane on Saturday (June 22) before the horrific incident, Greater Manchester Police said.

At around 1.55pm, he 'lost control' of the motorcycle and was 'thrown' from the bike. His injuries proved to be fatal and despite the best efforts of emergency services, he sadly died at the scene on Astley Raceway.

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Paying tribute to him, Josh’s family said: “Josh was very sporty and excelled naturally in football. He played for Rishton United Football Club Juniors and Hyndburn Youths. Josh’s love for motorbikes developed at a very young age and he often rode them with his dad on weekends.

"Although he has always loved motor bikes, it wasn’t until he was financially independent that he was able to enjoy this hobby more frequently with his friends.

“What stood out most about Josh was his kindness. He had an ability to sense when someone needed a friend, a kind word, or a gentle smile. He was always the first to offer help, never asking for anything in return.

"His empathy and generosity were beyond his years, qualities that made him beloved by everyone who knew him. In his short life, he touched more hearts than many do in a lifetime.”

Speaking after the incident, Detective Constable Phil Drummond, from GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "Our thoughts are with the family of this young man who was out enjoying himself