TRIBUTES have been paid to a 24-year-old lad with ‘a beautiful smile’ who died recently.

Sam Askew, from Stonehouse, has been described as ‘the most beautiful soul with the most infectious smile’.

Survived by mum Dawn, dad Simon and brother James, Sam died on Saturday, April 29.

He had a passion for scootering and biking, was a dedicated Man Utd fan and also enjoyed creating TikTok videos with friend Alex Trim.

Friends who remember him from Maidenhill School described him as the joker who made everyone laugh.

Now, warm tributes have been paid.

His parents Simon and Dawn said: "Sam was a larger than life character who will be sorely missed by all."

Family friend Kerry Greenaway, who has set up a GoFundMe page to help the family with funeral costs, added: "Sam shone in and around his hometown of Stonehouse.

"He was the most beautiful soul with the most infectious smile.

“He had such a beautiful, cheeky smile and leaves behind a lot of heartache and sorrow.

"Friends from Maidenhill School remember him as the joker who made everyone laugh.

“Dawn and Simon feel great comfort from all the love and support from Sam’s friends.

“With the proceeds from the appeal I would like to help the Askews in giving Sam the best send-off.

“If there is anything leftover it would be nice to create a memorial bench in Stonehouse.

“I appreciate times are tough for everyone right now but any donation no matter how small will make all the difference to Sam’s family."

So far £1,625 has been raised towards the £2,000 goal.

Moving tributes have been left on the page and on social media.

Friend Jacob Marshall said: “I was so gutted to hear the news about Sam, I remember weekends with you so well.

“I have fond memories of seeing you at various skateparks over the years.

“You were always such a positive person to be around and just a good guy full stop.

“You will be sorely missed by many."

Another friend said: "I’m going to miss you so much and I’m glad we had some lovely memories together.

“You are at peace now, hope you are partying up there.”

At one point, Sam spent time helping Stonehouse Town Council's groundsman at Chapel Garden.

A town council spokesperson said: “We are sending our heartfelt condolences to Sam's family and friends.

“We have offered space along the flower border, which Sam helped to construct, in the Old Chapel Garden in Stonehouse behind Wynn’s café for anyone who wishes to leave flowers.

"Sam spent time there and assisted our then groundsman."

The funeral is at Gloucester Crematorium on Tuesday, May 30 at 2pm.

Sam’s parents have asked those attending to wear bright colours or Man Utd shirts plus trainers - no black please.

No flowers but donations can be left in the retiring collection.

An inquest has been opened and adjourned.

Donate to the GoFundMe appeal at bit.ly/3M5WmBL