A FUNDRAISER supporting the family of a Corwen Football Club goalkeeper who died following a crash has raised more than £3,000 in just two days.

Joshua Jason Atkin, who was from the Saltney area, died in the early hours of the morning on Sunday, March 28, following a collision on the A483 in Wrexham.

The GoFundMe page, set up on Tuesday to raise money for Joshua's family, has already collected £3,710 (correct at time of writing).

During his career in football, Joshua had played in goal for teams in Broughton, Buckley, Connah's Quay, Saltney and Lache in Chester before signing for Corwen in August 2020.

Corwen FC chairman Martin Lyons hailed him as a 'larger than life character' who 'had time for absolutely everyone'.

Despite being at the club for less than a year, he had become a big part of it - even helping out with coaching the under 15's side.

The fundraiser to collect money for Joshua's family, helping to support them with funeral costs and more, was set up by Jade Stevenson.

A statement from Jade on the page, read: "Due to the devastating news of Josh Atkin I’ve set up a go fund me page to help raise money to support his family in this difficult time and to give him the send off he deserves. Josh had a smile to light up any room and will forever be missed."

A comment from Sion Hughes on the page read: "Josh. Didn't know you for long but in the short time I got to know you at Corwen FC we got on like a house on fire. Absolutely gutted to hear this news. Brilliant lad on and off the pitch. My thoughts are with your friends and family at this horrible time."

Corwen FC's Ryan Billington also paid tribute, saying: "So sorry for your loss. I only met Josh for Pre Season last summer at Corwen. I found him an absoloute gent from the start. A brilliant lad who had time for everyone. I hope all the memories you share will help your family get through this tough time. Thinking of you all."

North Wales Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward to the collision which happened at about 2.40am on Sunday.

In a statement, North Wales Police said: "The family of a man who died following a road traffic collision in the early hours of this morning (Sunday), have said they are 'deeply saddened' at the death of their son.

"26 year old Joshua Jason Atkin was from the Saltney area.His family are being supported by specialist officers, and have asked that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.

"We are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage in the area of junction 5 of the A483 (Mold) at approximately 2.40am this morning.

"Please contact us on 101 or visit: http://ow.ly/EPOv50EauBp quoting ref. Z041991."

To donate to the cause in support of Joshua's family, click here.