Tributes to Paul Lawson, who died at Greenbooth Reservoir

Staff at Hopwood Hall College have paid tribute to Paul Lawson, who died in a tragic accident at Greenbooth Reservoir on on Monday.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/110753/a-teenager-has-died-at-greenbooth-reservoir

A spokesperson said: "Paul was a popular and well-liked first year BTEC sports student and a member of the football academy. He’ll be very much missed by other learners and staff at the College and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this difficult time."

His coaches at the college’s football academy said of Paul: “Paul was a student who has made some exceptional improvements in recent months. We’re really proud of the way he applied himself to the game and how much he came out of his shell since he joined us.

“He was a great member of our second team and a fantastic personality off of the pitch. You would truly be hard pressed to find someone at this academy who would have a bad word to say about him.

“Our thoughts are now with his family and friends”

As a mark of respect, the college’s Sports Department led a minutes silence on Tuesday 20 June and will be retiring his number 28 jersey.

The college is offering support to both staff and students, and is also working closely with Greater Manchester Police and Rochdale Borough Council to offer ongoing support throughout the summer to anyone who needs it.

Wardle football club posted on Facebook said: “We regret to inform our members of the tragic passing of Wardle player, Paul Lawson.

"Paul played in the Rochdale Super League since 2015, and the news has come as a shock to all.

"We would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragedy and offer our full support to all those affected. We would ask for all to respect the privacy of the Lawson family at this devastating time.

"All of tonight's matches will honour Paul with a minutes silence. We welcome all members of the public to attend and pay their respects."

Wardle Academy’s headteacher, Carole Fisher, said the tragic event: “Staff and students of Wardle Academy were extremely sad to hear the news about Paul, one of our ex-students.

“All the staff who knew Paul were really proud of all his achievements. He was a much-loved young man with a happy and successful life ahead of him. He will be very much missed.

“Our thoughts are with his family.”

Mick Rez said: "Please help us raise funds to help towards funeral costs for Paul Lawson my nephew who was sadly taken under in Norden Greenbooth Reservoir on 19/06/17. 

"He should still be here, but the only way to stop these terrible accidents happening is to stop people going into these dangerous waters.

"We are also setting up an information page to make people aware of these dangerous waters.

"Any help given would be so welcome and very appreciated."

https://www.gofundme.com/paul-lawson