Gary Lineker's nephew, 18, dies after being crushed by falling tree trunk

Jonty Parkinson, 18, was killed by a falling tree trunk and his family have been left devastated by his sudden death with Gary Lineker's cousin describing him as 'one of the nicest boys you'll meet'

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker's teenage nephew tragically lost his life after being crushed by a falling tree trunk, an inquest has been told. The 18-year-old suffered fatal abdominal injuries while working on September 6, according to senior coroner Darren Slater who opened the inquest last week.

The incident occurred when a tree fell on him in Eaton Hastings, Oxon, as heard at Oxford Coroner's Court. Jonty Parkinson, born in July 2006, was remembered by his cousin George Lineker, 31, as "one of the nicest boys you'll ever meet" in a heartfelt social media tribute.

Alongside a childhood photo with Jonty, George wrote: "One of the nicest boys you'll meet, taken far too soon. Fly high cousin, you'll be missed by all."

Tobias Lineker, 28, also paid homage by posting an old photo of a smiling Jonty, saying: "Taken from us far too soon, rest in peace little cousin."

The family business, Sue Parkinson, expressed their sorrow on Instagram, announcing Jonty Parkinson's death - son to Bob and Ali, grandson to Sue and John, and nephew to Sally - on Friday, September 6, reports the Mirror.

The post included their appreciation for the overwhelming support received during such a harrowing time: "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."

The announcement also included the date of the funeral and expressed gratitude to customers for their understanding. Many followers quickly took to the comments section to express their condolences, with one writing: "So very sorry to hear. Sending so much love to you all," while another posted: "Absolutely devastating news. Sending love to you all."

A GoFundMe page was set up in memory of Jonty, aiming to assist the family in creating a 'beautiful memorial or event to celebrate the life of their much-loved son Jonty.

The description referred to him as a "very special" and "beautiful young man", adding: "I realise money can't fill the great chasm of loss they are feeling, but I hope it can be used to ease the burden of funeral expenses or go towards a fitting memorial for Jonty."

So far, the fundraiser has collected £32,000. Jonty was the nephew of Match of the Day star Gary, 63, from his first marriage to Michelle Cockayne, with whom he has four children.

Jonty's mother Ali, who is the ex-partner of rugby legend Will Carling, is Michelle's sister. The date for the full inquest is yet to be confirmed.