JOHN SCHEERHOUT

AYOUNG man who suffered serious injuries in a road smash 12 days ago has died.

Declan Blackburne, 21, passed away during Monday night with his family at his bedside.

He was left in a critical condition following the crash on Councillor Lane in Cheadle in the early hours of November 24.

He was in the passenger seat of a black Honda Civic when it ploughed into a tree and a telegraph pole after being spotted by an unmarked police car.

His family said in a statement: “It’s with deep regret I have to inform you that a few short hours ago Declan has sadly passed away. Declan was loved and known by so many people.”

Scores of people have paid tribute to Declan on Facebook.

Jordan Adefeyisan wrote: “The heavens have been given another angel. May you rest in peace bro. Never forgotten.”

Jake Allatson wrote: “Actually can’t believe I’m writing this. I’m going to miss you so much mate. I’m never going to forget a single memory we’ve had. Take it easy big man. Rest in paradise brother.”

Vicky Louise Jones said: “My heart is broken.”

A justgiving page has been set up in his memory to try and raise £1,000 so that he can be given a ‘fitting send-off.’ And within just a couple of hours it had smashed the target.

The page says: “Whilst this army of love has been pivotal in helping Dec’s loved ones hold it together in their hour of need, we all recognise that there is more practical help which we can give.

“This page is designed to meet that need.

“We as a close knit group of friends can help Dec’s family with the financial burden of sending the lad off fittingly.

“On behalf of his loved ones (namely Pam, Jan, Carl, Deano...) thank you so much for the continued support. I’m sure the big man himself would have been incredibly proud and humbled by it all.”

A man has been charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving in connection with the incident.

Mark Darren McCormack, 30, of no fixed address, was charged with failing to stop and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.