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Farewell to a special friend

Sue Carr
31/10/2007

HUNDREDS of family and friends gathered to say goodbye to teenager Nathan Owen, who tragically died while running across the M60 motorway.

The 16 year old, a promising footballer who had had trials for Manchester United, was killed as he crossed near to Lord Sheldon Way in Ashton on 13 October.

His three friends crossed safely but Nathan, of Lytton Road, Droylsden was hit by a car and died at the scene.

Mourners packed St Stephen’s Church in Droylsden on Friday to celebrate his life.

A horse-drawn hearse brought the teenager to the church and teammates from Medlock Rangers, Nathan’s beloved team, performed a guard of honour sporting football shirts with his name printed on the front.

Since his death, dozens of floral tributes have been placed at the scene of the accident and more than 200 people have signed the Advertiser’s online book of condolence.

One reads ‘Missing you already pal, Medlock will never be the same. You made the whole team laugh and you will never be forgotton.’

Another writes ‘I’m going to miss seeing you score in that number 18 shirt.

"Both me and Medlock know you will be watching us every week, I will be scoring for you and no’one else.’

Teachers and fellow students from St Damian’s Science College attended the funeral and the school also held a special mass.

A touching tribute from a schoolpal reads ’School is not the same, you were one in a million and it won’t be the same again.

"God needed an angel and so he took you.’