Daniel Worrall, aged 20, died on Saturday night in an accident less than half a mile from his home in Byfield Road, Woodford Halse.

In a statement issued today (Tuesday) his family said the popular youngster would be missed by many.

It read: "The community of Woodford Halse has been stunned by the tragic death of Daniel Worrall, in a car accident on Saturday evening. The accident took place on Byfield Road when Daniel lost control of his car and hit a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene, where he was surrounded by friends and family. He leaves his parents and an older sister.

"Daniel, 20, who had lived in Woodford since birth, was an immensely talented sportsman. While at Danetre School he represented the county at cross-country and achieved a number of honours. In 2002, at just 14, he became the county's youngest qualified football referee and continued to officiate regional league matches until his death.

"After making his way through the Woodford United Academy, Daniel (or Danny as he was known to friends) went on to play regularly for the reserve team. He also played cricket and was captain of Woodford Halse second eleven and enjoyed great success both personally and as captain. It was in this role that he coached and encouraged the club's younger players.

"Since last year he had worked for DM+ Security in Daventry as an electrical engineer and was studying for further qualifications in electrical and mechanical engineering at Northampton College. He always talked of his eventual plan to complete his apprenticeship and eventually start a new life in Australia.

"As all who were fortunate to have known him will know, Daniel loved and lived life to the full. He was popular among young and old alike, something which has been made apparent by the sea of cards and flowers as well as the hundreds of messages left on his Facebook, Bebo and MySpace pages. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all.

"His mother and father, Kevin and Jane and sister, Melissa wish to thank the hundreds of people who have offered their kind words and thoughts. The funeral is being arranged but at this sad time we would ask that the family be given the privacy, space and time needed to fully come to terms with Daniel's passing.

"The service will be held at Banbury Crematorium, details of which will be made available shortly. Afterwards, a celebration of Daniel's life will take place at Woodford United Football Club, to which all those who knew him are invited to share their memories of him."

For more on this story see Thursday's Daventry Express