Parents' tribute to stabbed son

Courtney was taken to Hope Hospital but later died

The parents of a 17-year-old boy who was murdered in Salford have paid tribute to their "carefree" son.

Courtney Eaton, from Winton, Salford, was stabbed to death in a disturbance on New Lane, Winton, on Friday night.

His parents, Lisa Diamond, 38, and Darren Eaton, 42, said: "His death has been completely unexpected and we have been left in deep shock."

They added: "He was a fun-loving and carefree lad and we cannot believe he has gone."

Courtney's parents said they hoped their son's death would serve as a warning to others.

"We can only hope that Courtney's death shows other kids in the area what can happen and acts as a warning," they said.

They added that he had been a keen biker, competing at a high level in his younger years.

'Bike bug'

"Courtney followed in his father's footsteps and became a keen motorcycle enthusiast," they said.

"His dad was a national biking champion and Courtney picked up the bike bug from the age of four.

"By the age of seven he was riding motocross before he moved up to mini-moto by nine.

"He then competed at the very highest level for a number of years at mini-moto and 80cc and was a national champion."

Courtney had recently left school and was working part-time in a brewery.

Officers arriving at the scene on Friday night found him slumped on the pavement with a single stab wound to his abdomen.

He was taken to Hope Hospital but died a short time later.

An 18-year-old man from Salford arrested on suspicion of murder remains in custody.

A 17-year-old boy from Peel Green, arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released on bail pending further inquiries until 6 November.