The family of a 19-year-old motorcyclist who died after a crash on the East Lancashire Road in St Helens have paid tribute to a “beautiful young soul” who “blessed everybody around him with his one-of-a-kind personality”.
Harry Douglas was riding his Lexmoto motorbike on the Manchester-bound carriageway of the St Helens section of the major road at around 9pm on September 6 when he was involved in a one-vehicle crash. Drivers performed CPR on Harry and he was rushed to hospital with critical injuries, but died four days later.
Family tribute and organ donation
In a tribute issued through Merseyside Police, Harry’s family said he was devoted to his mum, sister and partner, and “everything he did in life was for their benefit”. Harry was an organ donor, and in a fundraiser set up to raise money for funeral costs, his loved ones revealed that seven people had benefited.
His family added: “Harry understood the importance of organ donation, something he had spoken about with his family previously. His wish to help others will save and improve the lives of people he never met, a perfect example of Harry's personality.”
Community remembers Harry
In response to the ECHO’s story, dozens of Harry’s loved ones left their own memories of the young man who adored dogs and horse riding. Liv Phillips said: “The yard won't ever be the same without you, H. Save me a seat my mate. I'll look after your girls for you.” Bobbie Edwards added: “Still can't believe you're gone. Rest in place, Harry. Forever 19.”
Julia Connor wrote: “Aw, rest in peace, Harry. Love to his family and friends. God bless,” while Jon Trubshaw remembered Harry as a “fantastic young man who would do anything for anyone. Rest in peace, mate”. Demi Lewis said: “Forever young my little H. Love you so much. Rest in paradise our angel.” Natalie Evans-Lenehan added: “You'll forever be loved and missed, Harry. Still can't believe it. My heart is truly broken.”
Julia Ann Clarke wrote: “So sad, rest in peace Harry. Fond memories of you in primary school. Sending love and prayers to all your family.” Tina Barker remembered the teenager as a “beautiful soul taken too soon”.
Fundraiser and police appeal
According to the fundraiser, which has raised around £4,000 at the time of writing, Harry and his family collectively had a dream of one day opening their own horse riding yard. The fundraiser's creator added: “With so much love surrounding Harry, and the question, 'how can we help?' being a common theme, I have set up this fundraiser with the permission of his family.
“My aim is for our community to come together and support Harry's family at a time when they are facing an unimaginable loss. There are still many unanswered questions surrounding his death which will take a while to get some closure. Any funds raised will go towards funeral costs and other related expenses to support the family.”
Following the incident, Detective Sergeant Simon Duffy, from Merseyside Police's serious collision investigation unit, thanked people who stopped to provide first aid to Harry. Appealing for information, he said: “We know that the motorcyclist travelled from the direction of Coopers Lane, Kirkby, shortly before the collision, but our enquiries are continuing to establish the cause of the collision. If you were on the East Lancashire Road, between Moorgate Road and Windle Island, between 8.45pm and 9pm, please make contact if you have dashcam fitted or recall any significant events. Your information or footage could be crucial to the investigation and confirming exactly how the collision occurred.”
