Stuart Pearce’s son Harley, aged 21, died at the scene of a tractor crash on the A417 Old Birdlip Hill in Witcombe, Gloucestershire, police said on Monday afternoon
03:58, 21 Oct 2025Updated 03:59, 21 Oct 2025
Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, paid tribute to Stuart Pearce(Image: SmartFrame/Manchester City FC)
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to Stuart Pearce and his family following the death of the England legend’s son.
Harley Pearce, 21, died after a tractor crash, which happened on the A417 Old Birdlip Hill in Witcombe, Gloucestershire on Thursday October 16. His heartbroken dad Stuart and his family described Harley, who was the driver of the tractor, as “a cherished son and devoted brother”.
Speaking during a press conference in Spain, Guardiola said: “I know there are no words for this huge tragedy but our deepest love to him and his family.” Stuart made 38 appearances for Manchester City between 2001 and 2002, and later became their manager, some time after his famous Nottingham Forest stint ended.
Nottingham Forest posted on X saying: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Harley Pearce. The thoughts of everyone connected with Nottingham Forest are with Stuart and his family at this truly difficult time.”
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Harley Pearce died at the scene of the crash(Image: PA)
Harley, who was from Marlborough, Wiltshire, died at the scene of the crash, said to have happened when the tractor suffered a tyre blow-out which caused Harley to veer off the road. Emergency services were called to the scene at about 2.30pm on Thursday, Gloucestershire Police said.
In a tribute released by the police, the Pearce family said: “Our family is truly shocked and utterly heartbroken at the loss of our cherished son and devoted brother, Harley.
“A soul who left an unforgettable imprint on all who knew him. He was a golden boy with an infectious smile, and this shocking tragedy will leave a huge hole in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
“With a quiet, understated strength and deep kindness, we are so proud of the young man he had become, exhibiting a wonderful work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit in the farming industry. He will always be our shining star. Rest in peace, our beautiful son and brother. You will never ever be forgotten.”
Tributes have been paid to Harley, pictured here with his girlfriend
Stuart Pearce managed Man City for two years, some time after his playing days with the club(Image: PA)
Stuart also made 42 appearances for West Ham United between 1999 and 2001. The Hammers posted on X: “We are saddened to hear of Harley Pearce’s passing. Everyone at the Club sends their deepest condolences to Stuart and his family at this tragic time.”
Guardiola’s Manchester City side play Villarreal in Spain tonight in the UEFA Champions League. His club tweeted yesterday: “Everyone at Manchester City sends their love and thoughts to Stuart and his family at this very difficult time.”
Investigating officers with Gloucestershire Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision or has any relevant dashcam footage to get in touch. Information can be provided to police online, quoting incident 284 of October 16.