The family of a 14-year-old boy who died in a suspected hit-and-run on Akers Way outside Nova Hreod Academy last week has issued a moving tribute. 

In a heartbreaking statement from the grieving family of Harry Parker, dad Adam, mum Kelly and his three brothers opened up on the tragic and unexpected loss.

Adam starts the emotional announcement with: “I have been really struggling to write this, but I need to.”

He continues: “This is something no parent should ever have to say. Our beautiful golden son Harry Parker was involved in a horrendous car incident along the horrible road Akers way.”

Swindon Advertiser: Adam ParkerAdam Parker (Image: Adam Parker)

“Unfortunately, he lost his life far too soon. Harry will be missed by lots but no more than us, his family.”

The young boy’s father then called for people to ‘honour’ Harry by posting lots of photos and music that he liked onto his Facebook page, before going on to describe what he was like.

“Harry was a cheeky chap that could light up the room with just his presence," he said in the Facebook post. "He had the biggest heart and loved to make people laugh.”

Since the incident on Friday morning, there has been an overwhelming outpouring of support for Harry, with the whole town reeling from the news of his death.

Hundreds of people have visited the crash site and have laid flowers in his memory, alongside other tributes such as photos and football shirts.

Adam added: ”We are very comforted by all the support from everyone. We will be doing something to make the road safer but please bear with us at this time.”

Swindon Advertiser: Harry Parker, 14, was also known for his sense of humourHarry Parker, 14, was also known for his sense of humour (Image: Adam Parker)

Police and ambulance crews responded to calls on Friday morning that a pedestrian had been knocked down by a car that then failed to stop at the scene. 

Paramedics acted quickly to try and save Harry's life and he was airlifted to a hospital in Bristol by Wiltshire Air Ambulance. 

But despite the best efforts of medical staff, he was unable to be saved and died later that day. With Wiltshire Police confirmed the boy's death the day after so that there was time for family members to be informed.

After a police investigation, which saw Akers Way remain closed for the majority of the day, a woman in her 50s was arrested and has since been released on bail as enquiries continue.