Mum hopes Manchester City fans will honour son's life with special tribute against Ipswich at the Etihad
A grieving mum is hoping Manchester City fans will honour her son’s life at their first home game of the new Premier League season.
Will Place was killed on July 1 when his car crashed into the White Lion pub in Heywood, Rochdale. Will, who did media work for Ramsbottom United and Roch Valley Radio, was 23. He had been a City season ticket-holder since the age of seven.
At the time of his death, mum Beverley Place said her son had been watching England's Euro 2024 tie with Slovakia with friends before deciding to drive, adding he “made the worst decision of his life and tragically paid the ultimate price”.
City host Ipswich at the Etihad on Saturday and now the Rochdale councillor is hoping there can be a tribute to her son in the 23rd minute.
She posted on social media: “Will was tragically killed in a car crash on the 1st July. He was just 23 and had been a passionate Blue all his life, having a season ticket from the age of 7.
“I am asking all fans attending City's first home game next Saturday to join our family and friends at the Etihad with a minute's applause on the 23rd minute of the game to honour Will's life. Please spread the word about Will's 23rd minute fan clap with people you know will be at the City vs Ipswich game on 24th August.”
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Speaking after his death in July, Cllr Place said in a statement: "Will was adored by all that knew him. He was a special person, with a heart of gold, who lit up every room with his infectious smile and personality.
"He was passionate about football and in the early hours of Monday morning, after celebrating the England team's win, Will acted completely out of character and made the worst decision of his life and tragically paid the ultimate price.
"We are all left utterly bereft and heartbroken. We are grateful for the outpouring of grief, love and support we have received from his innumerable friends."