Gary Lineker's nephew 'crushed to death by a tree' as tributes pour in for 18-year-old

Gary Lineker's teenage nephew died after being crushed by a falling tree earlier this year, an inquest has heard. Jonty Parkinson, who was 18 at the time of his death, was killed while working as a tree surgeon last month.

Opening the inquest, senior coroner Darren Salter revealed Parkinson died following a crush injury to his abdomen which was caused by a falling trunk. Oxford Coroner's Court heard the incident took place in the village of Eaton Hastings, Oxon on September 6.

A page on GoFundMe was set up in memory of the teenager and has raised over £32,000 to help create a 'beautiful memorial or event' for the family. In a post under the appeal, which is now closed to further donations, he was described as a 'very special, beautiful young man'.

The post added: "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."

Tributes have been pouring in since the news of Parkinson's death was confirmed, with his cousin George Lineker describing him as 'one of the nicest boys you'll ever meet' in a touching social media post.

He shared an Instagram story featuring a picture of himself alongside Parkinson when he was younger alongside the caption: "One of the nicest boys you'll meet, taken far too soon. Fly high cousin, you'll be missed by all."

Tobias Lineker, brother of George and son of Gary, also posted an image of Parkinson smiling with the message: "Taken from us far too soon, rest in peace little cousin."

Parkinson was the nephew of Match of the Day host Lineker from his marriage to his first wife, Michelle, with whom he shares four children. Parkinson's mother, Ali, is the sister of Michelle and was previously married to former England rugby captain Will Carling.

A full inquest into the teenager's death is pending, with a date yet to be confirmed.