Man admits causing death of young Sheffield United fan by dangerous driving

Mitchel Hughes, aged 25, of Lapwater Road, Wingfield, Rotherham, pleaded guilty to causing the death of Ryan Durkin at Sheffield Crown Court earlier this year, it can now be reported.

Sheffield United fan Ryan, aged 15, died in hospital eight days after he was hit by a BMW car on Brinsworth Lane, Rotherham, on April 19.

Hughes is due to be sentenced at a later date.

After Ryan died, his mother paid tribute to her much-loved son.

Diane Durkin said: “I will always remember Ryan for his lovely smile and the kind and considerate young man he had become.

“Ryan was the quietest member of our family.

“He would lie on the settee with his headphones in listening to his music, but he was taking everything in around him - he didn’t miss a trick.

“He had a season ticket for Sheffield United and played for Phoenix u15s.

“But the thing he loved most was being with his girlfriend Ellie and his friends.

“He had an absolutely amazing group of friends - too many to name.

“I look at the last text messages he sent me and smile.

“They are all about money, alcohol and the time he has to come in.”

She added: “Ryan will always be the most beautiful flower in the garden.

“Our house seems empty now, too quiet.

“Our family is broken and always will be.

“There is a piece missing.

“We will never totally mend.”

Ryan was a student at Brinsworth Academy.

Following Ryan’s death, Andy Richie, chief executive officer of the LEAP Multi Academy Trust, which runs Brinsworth Academy, said: “Ryan was a quiet, popular student with a fun sense of humour.

“He had great potential and a bright future ahead of him, particularly in sport, where he was a crucial member of the school football team.

“He will be remembered by staff as a polite, well-mannered student with a wonderful smile.”

Around 1,000 mourners attended Ryan’s funeral.