Andrew’s memory to live on

TRAGIC . . . Andrew Curwell

A TREE-planting service is to take place in memory of a tragic Saddleworth rugby star.

Andrew Curwell, of Delph, died in Newquay on June 28, 2009, after celebrating the end of his A-level exams.

The 18-year-old became separated from his friends when he lost his wallet and horrifially plunged 100ft from a cliff.

Cornwall County Council officer Hamish Gordon said in order to retain cliff-top shrines to those who died in Newquay that summer, a memorial garden would be built in a quiet area where families could reflect.

A tree and plaque remembering the gentle giant have been donated by the council.

Andrew’s dad, Steve, who has set up the Saddleworth Rugby Trust in Andrew’s honour, said: “Andrew’s friends are planning to go down to Newquay every year to the memorial garden. It will be a nice way to remember him.

“Lots of the people who used to play with or against him went to his funeral and some of his team-mates were on the holiday with him when he died. They will be pleased to know this event is happening.”

Andrew was a member of the successful Saddleworth Rangers youth team that won the North-West Counties championship at Under-12 and Under-16 level.

He also won the Oldham Cup for the Under-13s right through to the Under-16s.

Team-mates included the likes of Jack Bradbury, Scott Mansfield and Stephen Neild — all now with Oldham RLFC — and David Orwell, of Huddersfield Giants.

One of talented Andrew’s highlights was beating Catalan Dragons Academy in Perpignan, France. Andrew also played as second row forward for Leeds Rhinos Academy Under-18s after joining in 2007.

Andrew died before learning that he had achieved an A and two Cs in his exams, which would have earned him a place at Leeds Met University on a sports science degree course.

The service takes place at the memorial garden, which is a short walk from the car park near Newquay Waterworld, at 11am on Tuesday, March 29.