Alex Wright of the Dorking Advertiser has written a sensitive piece that includes some lovely tributes.
Dorking Advertiser, 30 September 2004
(Transcript of article:)
Community in mourning as Mole Valley’s roads claim another victim
Man, 24, in fatal crash
A COMMUNITY has been left stunned by the death of a 24-year old man who was killed when his van hit a tree outside Newdigate.
Russell Haigh, from Village Street, Newdigate, died after his Ford pick-up went into the tree on Rusper Road, near the entrance to Woodlands Farm, early on Saturday morning.
Police, ambulance and the fire service went to the accident, but Mr Haigh was declared dead at the scene.
Family and friends have paid tribute to Mr Haigh, described as a keen sportsman who was popular and highly thought of by all.
His father Chris said: “He was very outgoing, friendly, caring and very popular.
“Everyone’s going to miss him a great deal.
“He was so popular with all age groups, from friends of mine to friends of his, and integrated so well with everybody.”
Mr Haigh was born in Kent and moved to Newdigate about six years ago.
He had many friends in the area and a girlfriend, Samantha Jakens.
Mr Haigh worked as a tool hire manager for Jewson and played for Newdigate and Brockham Green football clubs.
He also skippered the village’s cricket club 1st XI, and was getting ready to go away on tour with them to Menorca.
Eric Longhurst, club secretary of Newdigate Football Club, said both home and away matches on Saturday and Sunday were cancelled and prayers were held at the church.
He said: “We are just sad about it.
“He was the joker of the club and was full of beans.
“He was a good footballer and a Chelsea supporter.”
John Calcutt, from Newdigate Cricket Club, said Mr Haigh was a good all-round sportsman and had only taken on the role of captain at the start of the season.
He said: “Russell loved both cricket and football.
“He had the ability to mix with young and old, and endeared himself to everyone he met.
“He was fun to be with and showed respect and courtesy to all.
Peter Moore, coach/manager of Brockham Green Football Club, said a minute’s silence would be held at the club at 9.30am this Sunday in memory of Mr Haigh.
He said: “I knew him for just over five years and he was a fantastic lad, always laughing and joking.
“In the changing room, if people had long faces, the moment he walked in he would change all that.
“He never had a cross word for anybody.”
Mr Moore remembered how much Mr Haigh had enjoyed his appearance in the cup final at Leatherhead only at the end of last season.
“His death is just a great pity - it’s tragic.” he said.
“All of the Brockham Green players and staff send their deepest condolences to his friends and family.”
A funeral service is planned for tomorrow (Friday).
* Anyone with any information about the accident is asked to contact the police’s collision investigation unit on 01932 569922.
Thanks to Alex Wright who wrote this story, and everyone who contributed their thoughts to it.
