Floral tributes area for tragic Sheffield kickboxer Scott Marsden

The talented 14-year-old, from Malin Bridge, died in the early hours of Tuesday - three days after he was taken ill during a national kickboxing title fight in Leeds.

Tributes have poured in and now an area is to be set aside at his former school - Forge Valley School in Stannington - for mourners to lay flowers. People will be able to lay floral tributes from 3.30pm on Friday, March 17, and the area will remain accessible over the weekend.

Headteacher Dale Barrowclough said: "We are deeply saddened by the news of Scott Marsden’s tragic passing. Our thoughts are with his family during this very difficult time.

"Scott was a very popular young man among pupils and staff alike and it is without doubt that he had a very bright sporting future ahead of him.

"The last two days have been very difficult for everyone in our community. Pupils have been, and continue to be, supported by staff and fellow pupils alike. It is testament to them all that they have dealt with this tragic news in such a mature and respectful way."

Friends and relatives can also lay flowers in the designated garden area at the nearly Hillsborough Arena, where Scott attended Marsden's All Styles Kickboxing Club.

A spokesperson for the sports complex said: "We as a venue wish to respect the Marsden family at this difficult time. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and we ask that all approaching the venue remain respectful at this difficult time."

A fundraising page set up to support his family had passed the £4000 mark yesterday and had received more than 200 individual donations.

Sheffield Wednesday will also pay their respects to the fighter, known as 'Scotty', when they play Reading at Hillsborough this Friday. The club said it would include a tribute in their matchday programme and display a special message on the big screen before the game and at half-time.