A 14-year-old from Consett died after a farm vehicle accident in Burnopfield, prompting tributes and a community farewell event
Tragic Accident Claims Life of 14-Year-Old Aaron Anderson
Fourteen-year-old Aaron Anderson from Consett suffered life-threatening injuries after a John Deere Gator utility vehicle overturned on a farm in Burnopfield, off the B6310, on December 21. He was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle but sadly died five days later on Boxing Day.
School Community Mourns Aaron
On January 7, his school, Consett Academy, expressed their sorrow. They described Aaron as a “bright, cheerful and hardworking” pupil who will be “greatly missed.” Head teacher Tom Urwin and Linda Rodham, CEO of the New College Durham Academies Trust, released a statement about Aaron’s passing.
They said, “It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our students, Aaron Anderson, who died on Boxing Day following a tragic incident. Aaron was a much-loved and valued member of our school community, a bright, cheerful and hardworking young person who brought a smile to those around him every day.”
They added, “Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Aaron’s family and friends at this unimaginably difficult time. We are immensely grateful for the dedication and care shown by emergency services and hospital staff who worked so hard to support Aaron and others affected by this tragic event.”
Final Farewell Plans
Friends, family, and community members are invited to participate in ‘Aaron’s Last Rodeo’ on January 16. This convoy will take place before Aaron’s funeral and will accompany him to the crematorium.
Aaron’s parents have requested vehicles gather at Hownsgill Industrial Estate in Consett between 10:30 AM and 11:20 AM, before joining the funeral cortege at 11:30 AM. His funeral will occur at Mounsett Crematorium in Dipton, near Stanley, at 12:30 PM on January 16.
Organizers encourage participants to decorate their vehicles with bright-colored ribbons or bows to “make his last journey a good one.”
Community Support and Fundraising
More than £8,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs and support his parents, Donna and Craig, and his brother. Family friend Anne Campbell, 47, launched the fundraiser on December 30.
She stated, “When you have kids, the last thing on this earth that you think about is paying for their funeral. It’s the most unnatural thing in the world, losing your child.”
Any additional funds raised will be donated to charities and hospital organizations, including causes linked to the RVI in Newcastle.
Family Tribute
Aaron’s family described him as a “cheeky chappie who was always smiling and would never fail to brighten up your day.” They said he “will be missed by all who knew him.”
Aaron’s dad, Craig Anderson, expressed gratitude to those who have supported them. He said, “Thank you to everybody who, especially in the current climate, have gone out of their way to donate or like or share. We’re absolutely grateful to every single person.”
Summary of Key Facts
| Date | Event | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 21 | Accident | Burnopfield | John Deere Gator overturned |
| December 26 | Death | Newcastle | Aaron died at Royal Victoria Infirmary |
| January 7 | School Statement | Consett Academy | Aaron remembered as bright and hardworking |
| January 16 | Funeral | Mounsett Crematorium | 12:30 PM service |
| January 16 | Convoy | Hownsgill Industrial Estate | Gathering at 10:30 AM |
