Tributes have been paid to a young West Cumbrian footballer who died suddenly.
Bailey Kiddie, of Sandwith, a former pupil of St Benedict’s School in Whitehaven, died earlier this week.
He played for Whitehaven AFC Under-18s and was a former player of Cleator Moor Celtic.
Tributes have flooded in to the youngster.
Whitehaven AFC said: “Bailey was a not only a valued member of the group during his time at the club but also great friend to many.
“From the moment he joined he was a player who embodied our club ethos and never gave less than 100% during training and games and will be sadly missed amongst all associated with our U18s and throughout the wider club and community.
“We are supporting our players who were close to Bailey at this time.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Bailey’s family, in particular his mam and dad Lisa and Lee, his sisters Darcy and Gracie and his wider family.”
Cleator Moor Celtic said: “Everyone at Cleator Moor Celtic is devastated to hear about the passing of former youth player Bailey Kiddie.
“Bailey played his youth football for us up until U16s, always giving his all and was loved by everyone. Our thoughts are with Baileys family and friends and all that knew him.”
Cumberland FA said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bailey Kiddie, a young footballer from Whitehaven who proudly represented Whitehaven AFC U18s.
“Bailey was a valued member of our footballing community, and his loss is felt profoundly across Cumberland.
“His passion for the game, his spirit on and off the pitch, the joy he brought and the impact he made upon his team-mates and coaches alike will never be forgotten.
“On behalf of everyone at Cumberland FA, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Bailey’s family, friends, teammates, and all at Whitehaven AFC, where he currently played for their U18s, and former club Cleator Moor Celtic, during this incredibly difficult time.
“Our thoughts, and those of the wider grassroots football community within Cumberland are with you.
“We are currently working closely with Whitehaven AFC and their U18s team to plan a football-wide response that will honour Bailey’s memory. Rest in peace, Bailey.”
St Benedict’s School said: “St Benedict’s High School would like to send heartfelt condolences to the family of former pupil Bailey. Bailey was a sweet, kind and polite young man.”
He always said he liked school ‘especially the breaks’. This was the time when he would be sent by his friends to ask for a football, as they always knew we would say yes to Bailey.
“He will be greatly missed by staff and students alike.”
The teenager’s father Lee played rugby league for Kells, Whitehaven and Workington Town, and was also capped by Scotland.
