Tributes flood in for tragic teen

Jack Braniff

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HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a teenager who died after being struck by a car in the early hours of Saturday.

Police were called to Middleton Road, Chadderton, at around 1am to reports that someone had been hit by a blue Toyota Picnic, close to the Asda supermarket.

Paramedics found 19-year-old Jack Braniff in a critical condition. He was taken to hospital where he later died.

Messages

Flowers have been left at the scene, next to the Sun Mill Inn, alongside candles and messages written in chalk.

Jack's dad, Eddie Braniff, said: "Words fail me. He was such a loving son to me and his mum Shelley, a loving grandson, nephew and friend to many. He loved to party. He had his whole life ahead of him. The pain will never go away."

Jack's best friend Iain Audsley, whom he studied with at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London, told the Chronicle: "Jack was one of a kind. He was a caring, kind young lad.

"He made really good friends with a bunch of lads known as the 'brotherhood' ­- one of them was myself.

"We weren't a gang, we were brothers, like a family, who stuck by each other, supported each other through the good and bad times.

"Today it doesn't feel the same without him. Jack brought laughter, kindness and fun to his life in London to us all which I'm sure he was the same back at home.

"Life is not the same without him. He always lived life to the full and did things no-one else would do. I hope he rests in peace up there."

Police are now appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

PC Paul Joynson, from GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "This is such a tragic loss of a young life, my heart goes out to Jack's family, I cannot imagine what they must be going through.

"An investigation has now begun into the collision. No arrests have been made ­- however, the driver of the vehicle is assisting the police in the investigation.

"We are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the collision to get in touch as soon as possible to let me know what you saw. I'd also like to hear from anyone who may have any dash-cam footage of the incident.

"Any information, no matter how small, may be able to help me provide Jack's family with the answers they deserve."

Jack's friends and former classmates from North Chadderton School took to Facebook to share their response to the tragic news.

Milly Flanagan wrote: "Honestly can't believe it. Jack Braniff every time I saw you, you had a smile on your face. Such a good friend to everyone and you helped me through so many difficult times.

"Taken far too young but heaven has gained an absolute angel, RIP."

Connor Colelavy wrote: "Such sad news to hear about Jack Braniff. Such a great sense of humour and always put others first through primary and secondary school.

"Will always remember spending half terms together when we were younger. RIP Jack, gone but never forgotten."

Jo Colleavy said: "I'll always remember his cheeky little face at all the birthday parties. RIP Jack, sending love to all his friends and family."

Polly Hargreaves added: "I am truly shocked by this terrible news. Jack Braniff was a true wonderful and hilarious character who used to make be laugh daily in class. A young man taken far too soon. RIP Jack."

Sarah Wardle posted: "From the moment I met him this guy had me in fits of laughter, he was a light and pure entertainment in both work and college and I'll never forget that.

"Jack Braniff was one of a kind, I am truly saddened to hear of his passing."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161-856 4741, 101, or via Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.