A NINE-year-old boy was horrifically crushed to death by a truck while he was playing in a farmer's field.

       Tomos Rhys Bunford suffered serious injuries after being struck by the farm truck on September 6 in Ferndale, near Pontypridd, South Wales.

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       Tomos Rhys Bunford was tragically killed by a farm truck on September 6 Credit: WNS

       Emergency services rushed to the scene to try and save the talented young rugby player, but he was tragically pronounced dead.

       His cause of death was blunt force injury to the chest.

       An inquest opening at Pontypridd Coroner's Court on Tuesday heard Tomos, of Ynyswybwl, had been hit by the vehicle in the countryside.

       An investigation into the incident remains ongoing and the inquest was adjourned until March 14, 2023.

       Tributes have poured in for the "cheeky" nine-year-old after Welsh rugby clubs held a minute silence before their matches over the weekend.

       Tomos' beloved club Pontypridd RFC said: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tomos Bunford who played for our U10s.

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       "Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this awfully sad time."

       Family friend Melanie Facey created a fundraiser to support the youngster's heartbroken family, which has already raised over ￡7,000.

       "Tomos sadly gained his beautiful angel wings which has left his family broken hearted," she said.

       "He was loved by many for his absolute cheekiness, massive personality and loving heart!

       "This tragic accident September 6, has left behind his Mam and Dad Louise and Rhys, his big brother Gethin 14 and his baby sister Clemmey, 9 months.

       "As you can imagine as a young family who are self employed any donation the people of our community make would be greatly appreciated while they stay at home to support each other through the coming weeks.

       "These donations will help towards funeral costs and relieve the family of any financial stress on top of an already horrific time."

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       The nine-year-old rugby player was pronounced dead at the scene, an opening inquest heard Credit: WNS