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Mum's warning after son's car crash death

Beverley Place Beverley Place and her son Will Place at his graduation. Both are smilingBeverley Place
"Our lives will never be the same ever again", said Will Place's mother

A bereaved mother said her son got behind the wheel "in the heat of the moment" and "paid the worst price anybody could".

Beverley Place's son Will died when he crashed into a pub in Heywood, Rochdale, at about 03:15 BST on Monday, after being chased by police.

Ms Place, who is a councillor in Rochdale, said 23-year-old Will had been watching England's Euro 2024 tie with Slovakia with friends before deciding to drive.

She appealed to young drivers to "please, just get a taxi... don't put any of your loved ones through what we're going through".

Beverley Place Beverley Place and her son Will PlaceBeverley Place
A balloon release will be held in Heywood to remember Mr Place

Mr Place's Dacia Sandero crashed into the White Lion pub and burst into flames.

Greater Manchester Police has said it was pursuing the vehicle but had called the officers off the chase before the crash.

The Independent Office For Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the incident.

Mr Place's friends and family are being invited to remember him by attending a balloon release at Hopwood Park, Heywood, at at 18:30 BST on Friday 5 July.

An appeal has been issued by police for any witnesses, or those who may have footage of the crash, to come forward.

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