2 weeks Ago
A family has organised a charity football match in memory of a brother, father and grandfather who died. Paul Lawrence, 51, is described as a "family man" who was “always smiling” and supporting others in the community. Paul, from Littlehampton, died in Gladonian Road, Wick, near Littlehampton, in the early hours of January 28, 2024 , triggering a murder investigation.
An inquest into Paul's death , which was suspended in February 2024 due to the criminal investigation, revealed he had a head injury consistent with a fall and it is believed he was punched. He is thought to have been attacked in the street. Members of Paul’s family were supported by charity Victim Support following his death and want to give back.
Shelley Wade, Paul’s sister, said: “He is always there and just a really nice, happy, loving brother. “Always smiling, happy to help anyone. An honour to have as my brother.
“He’s a family man, he loves being a grandad.” Paul playing football with his grandson (Image: Supplied) Shelley said that Victim Support, a charity that supports those impacted by crime, “helped the family” in the wake of Paul’s death and during the course of the investigation. John Lawrence, Paul’s brother, said: “We had a lot of support back when it happened.
“The local people did a sponsored walk to raise money , that was so helpful. “Now, we want to give something back. READ MORE: Community rallies around to save food bank under threat of closure “So many people have been touched by Paul.
“He was a plumber, he used to do things for people if he could. “Someone said that Paul heard they couldn’t pay their one of their bills and he paid it for them. “We were amazed by how many friends he did have.
” The charity match will be taking place at Wick Football Club at 2pm on May 3. Paul Lawrence, 51, died in January 2024 (Image: Supplied) Donations can be made on a Just Giving page or given on the day, with all proceeds going to Victim Support. The Just Giving page reads: “Paul loved football and was a devoted Chelsea supporter, even though he was a little outnumbered by the amount of Fulham supporters in the family.
“This match is dedicated to honouring Paul's memory and aims to support those affected by similar tragedies.” Two 17-year-old boys, arrested on suspicion of murder, remain released on bail with strict conditions until April 5 as the investigation continues, police said..
