14 hours ago
Tragic M5 crash claims lives of family returning from Cornwall holiday
Tragic M5 crash claims lives of family returning from Cornwall holiday
Girl, 8, left orphaned after her parents and brother all died in the tragedy near Gloucester
The devastating news was shared by a local rugby club
(Image: Chesterfield Panthers RUFC sports facility )
A family who tragically died in a motorway crash near Gloucester were returning from a holiday. Andy Moore, Swala Harding and their 14 year old son, Sebastian Moore, sadly lost their lives in a single-vehicle collision around 9pm on Friday, May 30, while travelling on the M5 between junction 14 and the Michaelwood Services in Gloucestershire.
The family were heading back to Derbyshire from a holiday in Cornwall with their daughter, who "miraculously" survived the incident, having sustained serious injuries which are not life-threatening, according to a fundraiser set up in their memory.
A close friend of the family established the GoFundMe page, which has already seen more than £14,000 donated. The funds are intended to aid Andy and Swala's daughter in her recovery and contribute towards the funeral costs for her parents and brother. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here .
The page carries a heartfelt message: "On Friday 30th May, our dear friends Andy, Swala and their 14-year-old son Sebastian tragically passed away having been involved in a car accident whilst travelling back from a family holiday in Cornwall.
"The family sadly leave behind their beloved eight-year-old daughter, who miraculously survived the accident
"To help their lovely little girl adapt to her new future, and help contribute towards the cost of her parents and brother's funeral, we're asking if people would help us raise some money to make her life that little bit easier."
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The local rugby community is in mourning following the heart-wrenching loss of young player Sebastian Moore, his father Andy Moore, and mother Swala Harling, with Chesterfield Panthers RUFC and Tupton RUFC extending their profound condolences.
Chesterfield Panthers RUFC released a statement expressing their sorrow: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the tragic passing of three much-loved members of our Panthers family - Seb Moore, his father Andy Moore, and Seb's mum Swala Harling.
"Seb joined Chesterfield Panthers RUFC at the start of this season, becoming part of our Under 15s squad. While he had spent much of his rugby journey with Tupton Rugby Union Football Club, Seb and Andy became part of our club like they had always been with us - respected by teammates, coaches and parents alike.
"Seb was a kind, calm and friendly young man, always willing to listen, always with a smile, and always giving his best for the team. Andy's presence on the sidelines and around the club was just as valued - warm, supportive and easy to talk to.
"He was a lovely man and a true gentleman who, like his son, became part of our club in the most natural and meaningful way. Both Seb and Andy left a lasting impression on everyone who met them, and their loss is deeply felt by all of us.
"Swala's passing is equally heartbreaking. Though not as closely involved at the club, it is clear how much love and warmth she brought to her family, and how deeply missed she will be by those who knew her."
The club expressed their condolences, saying: "Our thoughts and love go out to their family and friends during this incredibly painful time - especially to Seb's younger sister, just eight years old, who survived the accident and is now beginning her journey toward recovery. She has already shown remarkable strength and resilience, and we will continue to hold her in our hearts in the days, weeks and months ahead."
In a statement, the club announced a fundraiser to help with funeral expenses and expressed gratitude for any donations or assistance in spreading the word. The club stated: "On behalf of everyone at Chesterfield Panthers RUFC, we send our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragic loss. We know the rugby community is one that rallies in times of sadness - and now, more than ever, that spirit of togetherness matters."
Tupton Rugby Club also shared a heartfelt message from Emma Kirk, the admin of their public Facebook group, along with a link to the fundraising page. Emma said: "We at Tupton Rugby Club were devastated to hear about the tragic accident that resulted in the loss of two of our dear parents, Andy and Swala, and their son Seb, who was a player within our minis and junior sections of the club.
"They have left behind a beloved eight-year-old daughter, and we are asking for your support by donating to the GoFundMe page that will help support this little girl on her road to recovery."
Following the devastating incident, Inspector Mark Vicary from Avon and Somerset Police shared his deep sympathies, saying: "Our thoughts first and foremost are with the child in hospital and loved ones who have received the most awful news overnight. A specially-trained officer will provide them with support at this difficult time."
The police are now urging anyone who witnessed the event or has dashcam footage to come forward and contact them either online or by calling the non-emergency number 101, quoting the incident number 5225151145.
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