A former King’s pupil school pupil has tragically died in a car crash only hours after completing the Wilmslow half-marathon.

Rugby player Tommy Blake, 20, died on Mobberley Road, in Ashley, when his car left the road and crashed into a hedge on Sunday (March 28).

Tributes have flooded in for the much-loved lad, who would have finished a three-year apprenticeship in July to become an electrican in Macclesfield.

Tommy, one of Knutsford Rugby Club’s ‘newest and brightest recruits’ , had just run the Wilmslow half-marathon for Mencap in one hour 48 minutes. A King’s spokesman said: "Everyone in the King’s community is deeply sorry for the family’s loss."

The 20-year-old , who lived in Mobberley, was travelling in the direction of Ashley when his car overturned at around 9.06pm.

It is a further tragedy for the family as Tommy’s brother Scott also died in a crash on the A556 in Mere, seven years ago.

A spokesman for the family said: "Tommy was a bright, charismatic young man, who always had time for everyone and was full of fun. Thomas was an all-round sportsman with interests in watersports, skiing, golf, tennis and power kiting.  His family are devastated at his untimely death at a point where he was setting out on his own journey through life." A North West Ambulance Service spokesman said Tommy had been thrown from the vehicle at high speed and had gone into cardiac arrest.

Traffic was diverted by police before the ambulance arrived at 9.20pm.

He was taken to Wythenshawe Hospital but was pronounced dead a short while later.

Police are now seeking witnesses. Anyone who can help is urged to call Sgt Carl Bailey of the special investigations unit on 01244 613641.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111.