The heartbroken family of a young man who died in a tragic accident just days before Christmas have spoken of their profound loss.
A Tragic Incident Before Christmas
Luke Haffield, a 20-year-old from Malvern, entered the River Avon in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, on December 19 last year. Following an extensive search by emergency services, his body was sadly recovered from the water over a week later on December 27.
The news has sent waves of grief through his community, with tributes pouring in for the popular engineering apprentice, who has been described by loved ones as having a 'beautiful soul'.
A Family's Devastating Loss
In an emotional statement, Luke's grief-stricken family said they were 'truly shocked and utterly heartbroken' at the loss of their cherished son and brother in such sudden circumstances.
They remembered him as a wonderful, kind, and considerate young man whose absence would leave a huge hole in the hearts of the hundreds of people who knew him. 'He touched the lives of so many with his kindness, and will leave an unforgettable imprint on all who knew him,' they said.
The family also expressed immense pride in the person he had become, highlighting his dedication to his engineering apprenticeship with Moog, where he was two years into his training.
A Life of Passion and Kindness
Luke was remembered as a keen sportsman with a wide range of interests. In his youth, he played football, hockey, and cricket, and had more recently taken up golf, darts, and padel.
His family's tribute concluded with a poignant farewell: 'He will always be our "Lukey". Rest in peace, our beautiful boy. You will never ever be forgotten.'
In the wake of the tragedy, the family extended their gratitude to all the emergency services involved in the search operation, including:
- Gloucestershire Police
- Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service
- The National Police Air Service
- Severn Area Rescue Association
- Dog handlers from West Mercia Police
The community now mourns the loss of a promising young life, cut short in a devastating river tragedy.
