Grieving mum plans party to celebrate son's life

Andrew James Whitby (18) of Skipton Close, Bury, was thrown 20 feet from the vehicle when it crashed in Bradshaw Road, Bolton, just after midnight last Friday (Oct 18).

Two friends from Ramsbottom and Bury were injured in the accident. Police have refused to name them.

Andrew was in the rear seat of the Peugeot 106 GTi when the car hit an embankment, overturned and landed on its roof. He was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital with severe head injuries but died an hour later.

Grieving mum, Mrs Julie Whitby (41) said: "He was sitting on the sofa and his friend called on Thursday to ask if he wanted to go out. I can't believe what has happened. He had just left college and had started work. He was planning for the future."

Andrew, described by his sister Emma (14) as a "top brother", was a pupil of Lowercroft Primary School before attending Bury CE High School. He had completed his GNVQ in electronic engineering maths and physics at Bury College and had accepted a job as a support engineer with an Oldham firm. He also worked at the KFC fast food restaurant in Bury.

Said Mrs Whitby: "Andrew was like a snowball; he picked up friends wherever he went.

"Since the accident people he knew at primary school have been ringing up to offer their condolences. He was a popular, well liked lad.

"In the near future I want to hold a party in memory of him and invite all his friends. Andrew loved to party."

The keen Manchester United fan also enjoyed sport and was a member of his school's hockey team.

Mrs Whitby, a midwife, added: "He had real charisma and will be missed. He was the perfect son and was loved so very much by all, especially his nana and grand-dad.

The funeral details are still to be finalised but Mrs Whitby said she wanted everyone who knew him to attend the service.

Police said it was believed the driver had been overtaking another car when he lost control on a bend.