Football community pays tribute to popular player Barry Armstrong who died in Chichester Road crash

The 25-year-old who is also known as Barry Sutton, died when a car he was driving hit a house on Chichester Road, during the early hours of the morning on Friday, January 24.

Emergency services attended, but sadly he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two other occupants of the car, a female passenger and a second male, received treatment in hospital after suffering serious injuries.

The woman remains in a critical but stable condition while the man is in a stable condition.

Dozens of flowers have been left at the scene of the crash, many bearing messages in tribute to the much-loved young man.

One message from South Shields Sunday football side Shaun Matthias FC thanked Barry for his efforts as a player on their team.

It read: “Rest in peace Barry.

“Our thoughts and hearts go out to all of your family, loved ones and friends.

“Thank you for all of your efforts and goals in our team.

“From all at Shaun Matthias FC.”

Felling Magpies FC also paid tribute to Barry, who they said had been one of their players.

In a post on Twitter the club said: “We regret to announce one of our players earned his wings yesterday.

“Today we play in honour of Barry Sutton. RIP Barry Sutton.”

South Shields Sunday league team The Derby FC also paid tribute to Barry Armstrong on Twitter, saying: “The @TheDerbyFC2 would like to send the condolences to Shaun Matthias in the passing of one of their players.

“Our thoughts are with Barry “byeline” Sutton’s family and friends through this time.

“Genuinely really nice bloke and good footballer too! R.I.P.”

Meanwhile a minute’s silence in honour of Barry Armstrong was said to have been held at the Sunday league match between South Shields side, The Derby FC, and Hebburn side, The Clock FC, on Sunday, January 26.

Other messages left at the scene of the crash read: “You were a canny hearted lad.

“So sad that you are gone so soon.

“You’re always in our hearts. Never forgotten. RIP.”