A FOOTBALL club has paid tribute to a bright, funny and intelligent teenager who was killed in a lorry crash.

Finley Shephard died in a collision involving a blue Ford Fiesta and a lorry in Steyning Road, Shoreham, on Sunday, July 3.

The 19-year-old was declared dead at the scene.

In a heartfelt tribute, Steyning Town Community Football Club said they were “utterly devastated” by the death of a “member of our footballing family”.

Finley, who joined the club at the age of six, had played regularly at youth level, before becoming a “free scoring centre forward who made a huge impact on and off the field”, a club spokesman said.

“Fittingly, his last game for the club was scoring two excellent goals in the Under-18 cup final a year ago as the Steyning Under-18s won their SCFL cup final at Shoreham FC.

“He has spent the last year at university in London, starting his next adventure while playing for the university.”

The Argus: Finley Shephard joined the club at the age of six. Credit: Steyning Town Community Football Club Finley Shephard joined the club at the age of six. Credit: Steyning Town Community Football Club

The spokesman described Finley as “passionate, talented and wholehearted on the pitch”.

“Finley was bright, funny and intelligent. He was also a talented all-round sportsman with a wide circle of friends.

“He has three sisters who all play at the club, and we are sure his younger brother will be next.

“His family are a huge part of the community, and the sense of loss and disbelief has been widespread.

“We will miss you Finley, and as a club, we will ensure we help support your family and friends during this tragic time. Thank you for all you gave us. You were much loved, and we will always remember you.”

The Argus: Finley Shephard. Credit: Steyning Town Community Football Club Finley Shephard. Credit: Steyning Town Community Football Club

An investigation into the fatal crash has been launched, with a report set to be prepared for the coroner.

Police are appealing for information and footage following the incident, with anyone who saw the vehicles in the area at the time or with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage urged to come forward.

Information can be reported to Sussex Police online, by calling 101, or by emailing collision.appeal@sussex.police.uk, quoting Operation Darwen.