Family of South Yorkshire horror crash victim Josh Tyler left devastated after callous thieves raid memorial bench

The family of South Yorkshire horror crash victim Josh Tyler say they have been left devastated after callous thieves stole motorcycle helmets left as a tribute to the teenager on his memorial bench.
The family of South Yorkshire horror crash victim Josh Tyler say they have been left devastated after callous thieves stole motorcycle helmets left as a tribute to the teenager on his memorial bench.The family of South Yorkshire horror crash victim Josh Tyler say they have been left devastated after callous thieves stole motorcycle helmets left as a tribute to the teenager on his memorial bench.
The family of South Yorkshire horror crash victim Josh Tyler say they have been left devastated after callous thieves stole motorcycle helmets left as a tribute to the teenager on his memorial bench.

Josh Tyler, of Swallownest near Sheffield, was killed aged just 16 after he was knocked off his moped on Mansfield Road in Swallownest in April 2015.

A memorial bench placed on top of Mansfield Road in Swallownest has now become a special place for his friends and family to remember him

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But his heartbroken sister Jodie says the family were shocked to discover this morning that thieves had taken motorcycle helmets attached to the bench at some point overnight.

The motorcycle helmets were stolen from Josh's memorial bench sometime between last night and this morningThe motorcycle helmets were stolen from Josh's memorial bench sometime between last night and this morning
The motorcycle helmets were stolen from Josh's memorial bench sometime between last night and this morning

The 23-year-old said: "I visit everyday and they were still there when I went yesterday."

She added: "This is the only thing we've got left of Josh, and now it's been taken away as well.

"Whoever did this is the scum of the earth, it's like robbing from someone's grave."

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The two helmets, one coloured red and one amber, were attached to the back legs of the bench up until this morning.

Josh Tyler, of Swallownest near Sheffield,was killed aged just 16 after he was knocked off his moped on Mansfield Road in Swallownest in April 2015.Josh Tyler, of Swallownest near Sheffield,was killed aged just 16 after he was knocked off his moped on Mansfield Road in Swallownest in April 2015.
Josh Tyler, of Swallownest near Sheffield,was killed aged just 16 after he was knocked off his moped on Mansfield Road in Swallownest in April 2015.

Jodie says the family are offering £200 as a reward to anyone who returns both helmets.

"This is the last thing our family needs right now. If you know where they are please get in touch," she said.

Jodie urges anyone with information to contact her at: [email protected]

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The family plan to go to the police if the helmets are not returned to them shortly.

Friends and family gather round a bench in memory of Josh Tyler, who was killed on Mansfield Road, Swallownest. Picture: Andrew RoeFriends and family gather round a bench in memory of Josh Tyler, who was killed on Mansfield Road, Swallownest. Picture: Andrew Roe
Friends and family gather round a bench in memory of Josh Tyler, who was killed on Mansfield Road, Swallownest. Picture: Andrew Roe

Tobias Shelton, 20, was jailed for three years at Sheffield Crown Court after admitting causing death by dangerous driving. He will be eligible for release next year.

Popular Josh, a pupil at Aston Academy and a lover of bikes, scooters and 4x4s, was looking forward to starting his apprenticeship in engineering and fabrication.

The Swallownest community was united in grief after Josh’s death.

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Hundreds lined the streets as his funeral cortege made it was through the village.

Josh's heartbroken sister, Jodie, says her family is offering a reward of 200 to anyone who can return the stolen motorcycle helmets to themJosh's heartbroken sister, Jodie, says her family is offering a reward of 200 to anyone who can return the stolen motorcycle helmets to them
Josh's heartbroken sister, Jodie, says her family is offering a reward of 200 to anyone who can return the stolen motorcycle helmets to them

Dozens of 4x4s and motorbikes followed Josh’s coffin as it made its way to All Saints Aston-cum-Aughton church.

An extra room was opened in the church to accommodate the many mourners, who also packed into the foyer and entrance to the church.

Hundreds of pupils from Josh’s school, held a special vigil and released balloons into the sky.