Applause and floral tributes for lifelong Stags fan, 17, killed in crash
The life of a teenage Stags supporter who died in a car crash was honoured with a minute's applause and floral tributes at the last game of the season.
Cardiff City supporters were praised for joining Stags fans in a minute’s applause for Summer Cheeseman, 17, and leaving heartfelt floral tributes outside the stadium on Saturday.
Flowers and a hand-written note were left outside One Call Stadium, where Mansfield fans had also paid their own tributes to the teen.
The note, from two Bluebirds fans named Clare and Justin, read: "We were so sorry to hear of your sad loss. Rest in paradise, Summer.
"Thinking of your family and friends and all at Mansfield Town FC. Love and best wishes, Clare and Justin."
Summer’s dad Rob praised the gesture on social media describing it as “absolute class."
Posting on Facebook in response to a picture of the floral tribute Rob said: “Absolute class from the Cardiff fans today. I’m Summer’s dad and really appreciate this”.
Scores of football fans also posted their appreciation to the visiting supporters on Facebook.
Ian Foulkes poasted: “It was a fantastic gesture from cardiff yesterday respect to 1 and all from a stags supporter and thank u for joining us in a minutes applause on the 17th minute”
Andrew Clay posted: “Super support from you guys yesterday, what a fantastic game to watch and the applause for Summer in the 17th minute brought a tear to the eye. Hope you do great in the championship next season.”
Andy Johnson posted: “Well done Cardiff fans total respect. mansfield fan”
Summer Cheeseman was a passenger in a Vauxhall Corsa, which left the road and hit a tree in Sutton Lane, Sutton Scarsdale, at around 11pm on Sunday, April 19.
The 17-year-old suffered serious injuries and lost her life at the scene.
Following the crash, the driver of the car, a 19-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
A tribute from Mansfield Town in the wake of her death said: "Everyone at Mansfield Town was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of life-long Stags supporter, Summer, who tragically lost her life following a car accident at just 17 years old.
"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Summer’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. May she rest in peace."
Summer’s family and friends have set up a fundraising page to raise money towards funeral costs. More than £2,400 or the £2,800 target has already been raised.
The GoFundMe page reads “Summer was a radiant light who brought warmth, energy, and joy into every room she entered.
“Summer meant so much to everyone who knew her, touching lives across the world with her kindness and spirit. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”
All money raised will go towards the “celebration of life”.
“All donations, no matter the size, are greatly appreciated and will go directly toward honoring her memory and helping us give her the beautiful farewell she deserves.”