Tragic death of Jack Rourke, from Little Lever, in crash abroad

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A family have paid beautiful tributes to a 23-year-old who tragically died in a car crash in Montenegro.

Jack Rourke, from Little Lever, died on May 24, and a driver has since been arrested and charged according to local newspaper reports.

His devasted family says his death has "left a void” in many lives.

His family said they were being “supported by people from all over the North West”, and that Jack was a very popular man in his community.

Lisa Rourke, his 49-year-old mother, said: “What I miss most is his constant messages and phone calls.

Jack Rourke, who died at 23. (Image: Lisa Rourke)

“He never used to leave me alone, 20 to 30 times a day, he was asking me the daftest things, like, ‘How do I cook chicken wings or how do I turn on the washer’.

“I miss getting messages from him. The support we have had has made a massive difference as well.”

All members of the family say they are in grief and shock, but are receiving “hundreds” of messages and dozens of cards and flowers.

He grew up in Little Lever, went to Mytham Primary School.

Jack was also known for being the “maddest goalkeeper”, supporting Bolton Wanderers and Manchester United.

His sister, 22-year-old Ellie, said: “He was the best big brother to ask for.

“We used to go on holiday and flip me off his shoulders into the pool because he knew I hated it.”

He was also successful in a junior team at the Little Lancashire Junior Coaching programme, and a keen golfer with his grandad.

Grandad Graham Cooksey, 74, said: “Jack loved everything about family life, always spending time with all the extended family, both at home and on many holidays.

“He always enjoyed socialising with his many friends in the village.

“He had his troubles in the past but had put these behind him and was maturing into a confident young man.

Jack was well-loved by his family and friends. (Image: Lisa Rourke)

“The family would like to thank everyone for all the kind and sincere messages at this extremely sad time.

“In the meantime, the families need time to deal with all their grief with dignity at this traumatic time.”

His 62-year-old father, John, added: “I miss having a drink with him. We used to go out every week, just locally where we lived in Little Lever.

“We went all over, had many lads' days out as dad and son.”

Jack worked in construction and had a girlfriend, but was out travelling at the time.

He was also remembered for his love of his nieces and nephews, playing games with them and taking them to Heaton Park on rides, and loving his two dogs.

According to Vijesti Online, "his passenger, also a British citizen, was seriously injured and received medical attention at the Kotor hospital."

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Montenegro and are in contact with the local authorities.”

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