'He was a gorgeous young man' - community devastated as boy, 16, killed in horror crash in Donegal is named

Tears will flow in Donegal on Wednesday afternoon when a beloved teenager who lost his life in a road traffic collision will be laid to rest. Joshua Morrow, 16, from Stranabrattogue, Cloghan, Co. Donegal died when the motorcycle he was travelling on was involved in a collision with a car on R252 at Cloghan on Saturday. Joshua, a talented GAA and rugby, has been remembered by his family and friends as a "gorgeous young man" and someone "who was liked by everyone".

The youngster is held in such high regard that his local GAA club, CLG Ghleann Fhinne, will hold a guard of honour as Joshua's coffin is carried into the The Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, Glenfin on Wednesday. "Everyone at CLG Ghleann Fhinne is heartbroken following the tragic death of Josh Morrow," said the club on social media. "Josh was a very talented player and held in the highest regard throughout the parish. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends in this difficult time." Ulster Rugby also paid tribute to the talented teenager who also lined out for his local rugby club, Finn Valley RFC.

"Ulster Rugby is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Josh Morrow of Finn Valley RFC," said a spokesperson. "Josh was set to begin the Ulster U17 Clubs Summer Programme in July and had recently represented Ulster Clubs U18s against Munster, a year ahead of his age group. Our thoughts are with Josh’s family, friends and everyone at Finn Valley RFC at this difficult time." Family, friends and strangers have been paying tribute to Joshua since his tragic passing at the weekend. One man said: "I’m so sorry for the tragic loss of Josh.

By all accounts, he was a gorgeous young man. Thinking of his heartbroken family, his friends (especially his Rugby Buddy - Joseph) and the wider community who are grieving him. May you all find strength at this very sad time." A second person lamented: "This is a terrible tragedy to come to any family. A lovely boy has lost his life.

My deepest sympathy to Josh's family. May God comfort you all at this time of great sorrow and pain. R.I.P Josh." Donegal Town RFC added: "Sleep well, Josh. Remembering you as a brilliant player, but even more as a kind and genuine person.

You gave everything for your teammates on and off the pitch, and your spirit, humour and courage will never be forgotten. Thinking of your family, friends and all who were lucky enough to share a pitch with you. May you rest in peace." Josh's death notice on RIP.ie says he will be missed by his heartbroken parents Elma and Jerry, sister Sarah, brothers Matthew, Shane (Michelle), Jason (Shannon), niece Sofia, Granny and Granddad, Dolores and Jim Thompson, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and wider community. Josh's funeral will leave his home at 1.30pm on Wednesday, April 29, going to The Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, Glenfin for Funeral Service at 2pm with internment immediately afterwards in Cill Mhuire Cemetery.

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.