A FORMER Runcorn Linnets player has been charged more than two years after a fatal crash.

Sam Harding, 20, died following an incident at a car meet at Kingsland Grange in Woolston, Warrington, on April 10, 2022.

Cheshire Police have confirmed this morning, Wednesday, that a man has now been charged.

Mason Hodgson has been charged with causing a death by dangerous driving.

The 23-year-old of Glen Road, Morley, Leeds, is set to appear at Warrington Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, October 15.

The charge relates to a collision between a car and a pedestrian which occurred at the car meet at 9.40pm.

The pedestrian, 20-year-old Sam Harding from Stockport, died as a result of the injuries he sustained during the incident.

He was known to be a promising footballer and had most recently been playing for Ashton Athletic in the North West Counties Football League.

He had also taken to the field for Runcorn Linnets and FC United of Manchester, as well as being capped by England Schoolboys.

FC United of Manchester’s academy manager Tom Conroy said at the time: “Technically, Sam was one of the best academy players we have ever had, and that was proven when he was successful in England Schoolboy trials earning caps for his country.

“Sam is always spoken about to future academy players as a perfect example of the type of player we want at the club, not only with regards to the standard of footballing ability, but the type of person he was – kind, polite, hard-working and professional.

“He will be sadly missed, and I would like to pass my love and condolences to Sam's family.”

A tribute released by his family read: “Our beautiful son was tragically taken away from us on Sunday, April 10.

“A much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend to many, we will never, ever forget you Sam and will love you forever.

“Rest in peace sweet angel, love Mum, Dad and Amy xx.”