Derbyshire mum, dad and son die in motorway crash while returning from Cornwall holiday

A father, mother and son from Derbyshire[1] have been named as the victims of a tragic motorway[2] crash last month. Andy Moore and Swala Harding, along with their 14-year-old son, Sebastian Moore, died in a single-vehicle collision at around 9pm on Friday, May 30, while travelling on the M5 between junction 14 and the Michaelwood Services. They were travelling home from a family holiday in Cornwall along with their daughter, who "miraculously" survived the incident with serious, but not life-threatening, injuries, according to a fundraiser set up in their memory.

The GoFundMe page[3] was set up by a close friend of the family and has seen more than GBP13,000 donated, with the funds set to help Andy and Swala's daughter through her recovery, but also to contribute to her parents' and brother's funeral. A message on the page reads: "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[4] 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." Sebastian, a young rugby player, had joined Chesterfield Panthers RUFC[5] at the start of last season after previously playing for Tupton RUFC, with both clubs sharing tributes following the "devastating" news. The club statement on behalf of Chesterfield Panthers reads: "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. "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." The statement added that the fundraiser will help cover funeral costs, and that any donations or efforts to spread the word would be much appreciated. The statement added: "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." The admin of the public Tupton Rugby Club Facebook group also shared a touching message, which was shared by the club itself, along with a link to the fundraiser. Emma Kirk wrote: "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 8-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 incident on May 30, Inspector Mark Vicary, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: "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."

Witnesses to the collision, or anyone with dashcam footage, are asked to contact police online or on 101 quoting reference number 5225151145.

References

1. ^ Derbyshire (www.derbytelegraph.co.uk)
2. ^ motorway (www.derbytelegraph.co.uk)
3. ^ The GoFundMe page (www.gofundme.com)
4. ^ holiday (www.derbytelegraph.co.uk)
5. ^ Chesterfield Panthers RUFC (www.derbytelegraph.co.uk)