Tributes paid to talented Bispham footballer, 14, as mourners urged to wear Manchester City colours at funeral

Family, teammates, his school and football club pay tribute to talented Jacob Millwood who has died aged just 14.

Mourners at the funeral of a talented young footballer who died at just 14, have been asked to wear Manchester City colours at his funeral.

Tributes have been paid to young footballer Jacob Millwoodplaceholder image
Tributes have been paid to young footballer Jacob Millwood | Submitted

Friends, family and his school and football club have paid tribute to Year 10 Millfield Science and Performing Arts College pupil Jacob Millwood.

And anyone attending the football mad youngster’s final farewell at Carlton Crematorium is urged to wear light blue in honour of Jacob’s love for city.

The cause of Jacob’s death has not been disclosed, although a page dedicated to Jacob has been created in support of Brian House Children’s Hospital.

More than £2,500 has already been raised in donations in his memory.

Tributes have been paid to young footballer Jacob Millwoodplaceholder image
Tributes have been paid to young footballer Jacob Millwood | Submitted

A spokesman for Bispham Junior Football Federation said: “Jacob was a valued member of our club, and his loss will be deeply felt by teammates, friends, supporters, and everyone who knew him.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Jacob’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.

“Jacob was a cherished member of our footballing family. His passion or the game, unwavering team spirit and bright presence on and off the pitch made a lasting impact.

“His loss leaves an immense void and will be deeply felt by all his teammates, coaches, friends and supporters and everyone fortunate enough to have know him.

“A wonderful son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, Jacob lived his life with remarkable enthusiasm and joy.

“He was a proud and devoted Manchester City supporter and his love for football was a central part of his character.

“He touched countless lives and was loved beyond measure.”

The school on Belvedere Road in Thornton-Cleveleys has a Progress 8 score for the 2023/2024 calender year of -0.04 which is average.placeholder image
The school on Belvedere Road in Thornton-Cleveleys has a Progress 8 score for the 2023/2024 calender year of -0.04 which is average. | Google Maps

Jacob was a Year 10 pupil at Millfield Science and Performing Arts College in Thornton.

A school spokesperson said: “We are heartbroken by the loss of Jacob, who will be greatly missed by our whole school community.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

The school has opened a book of condolence for his friends to record their memories of Jacob.

Jacob’s funeral takes place at Carleton Crematorium on Wednesday, June 17 at 12.30pm.

A spokesperson for the family said: “In tribute to his passion, attendees are warmly invited to wear something in Manchester City colours, especially light blue.

“Rest in peace, Jacob. You will be forever in our hearts.”

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