FOOTBALL clubs have paid tribute to a young man who played in goal for teams in North Wales and Chester.
Joshua Jason Atkin, 26, of Saltney, died in the early hours of Sunday morning after a collision on the A483 in Wrexham.
Josh was known in local football, playing for teams in Broughton, Buckley, Connahs Quay, Corwen, Lache in Chester and Saltney.
The clubs have expressed their sadness and expressed condolences to Josh’s family on social media.
Corwen FC said: “We deeply regret to announce the tragic death of goalkeeper Josh Atkin this morning. Josh made a great impression in his short time at the club and will be fondly remembered by all of his team-mates and club officials. Our thoughts and our condolences go to his family and friends. ”
Connahs Quay Nomads said, “We are devastated to hear of the death of former academy goalkeeper Josh Atkin. Everyone at the club sends our thoughts and condolences to Josh’s family.”
Buckley Town FC said: “We were shocked to hear of the death of our former player Josh Atkin.
“Josh won with BTFC junior leagues from U12 to U16 together with the NEWfA Cup.
“He also played for many local senior teams, including Buckley Town. Our thoughts and prayers go with his family and friends.”
Airbus UK Broughton said: “We are deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of our former @airbusacademy goalkeeper Josh Atkin.
“All of our thoughts are with Josh’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
Saltney Town FC said: “We are all deeply saddened by the death of former goalkeeper Josh Atkin overnight. Josh has many friends at the club and we send our thoughts and condolences to all his family and friends.”
In addition to teams in Flintshire and Denbighshire, Josh was the Lache goalkeeper in successful seasons in both the Saturday and Sunday leagues.
The football community was shocked by the sad news.
On Twitter, Airbus goalkeeping coach Ben Wynne said: “Very sad news to hear the death of goalkeeper Josh Atkin. He was a great boy and he absolutely loved playing in goal! I had one during my time at @FC_Nomads great time working with him. ”
Other clubs have also expressed their sadness.
Conwy Borough FC said: “My condolences to family and friends of all of us in Conwy Borough at this sad time.”
Llandynog United said: “Deep condolences from everyone at Llandyrnog Utd. Our thoughts go with you all at this deeply sad time.”
Bill Abbott, Head of Recruiting at Bangor City FC, tweeted, “Condolences from everyone at Bangor City Development Center.”
North Wales Police are calling on witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to report on the collision, which occurred at around 2:40 a.m. on Sunday.
In a statement, North Wales police said: “The family of a man who died early in the morning (Sunday) after a traffic accident have said they are ‘deeply sad’ about the death of their son.
“Joshua Jason Atkin, 26, was from the Saltney area.
“His family is supported by professional officials and has asked that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.
“We appeal this morning at around 2:40 am to witnesses or people with dashcam footage in the area of junction 5 of the A483 (Mold).
“Please contact us at 101 or visit: https://ow.ly/EPOv50EauBp using the reference number Z041991.”
