Community rallies after footballer’s tragic death

Jack Badger from Wantage was a talented midfielder playing for Abingdon United having already played for local side Wantage Town.

The football club confirmed the 24-year-old’s death on Wednesday, September 18 with a statement that said: “Abingdon United are devastated to learn of the sudden passing of our first team player and dear friend Jack Badger.

“Our thoughts at this hardest of times are with all of Jack’s loved ones, his family, his friends and his teammates.

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Jack Badger was an Abingdon United footballer.Jack Badger was an Abingdon United footballer. (Image: Abingdon United)

“A character on and off the pitch, Jack will be missed by all of us at Abingdon United.

“You are so loved Jack, rest in peace our Badge.”

Emergency services raced to a railway bridge near Wantage at around 8.30am on Tuesday, September 17.

Police cars, ambulances and fire engines were all in attendance with a person pronounced dead at the scene with emergency services remaining at the site on Tuesday morning.

A spokesperson for BTP said at the time: “Officers were called to the line near Wantage at around 8.28am following reports of a casualty on the tracks.

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Tributes were left for Jack at The Northcourt.Tributes were left for Jack at The Northcourt. (Image: His Mind Support)

“Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene.

“The incident is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”

Tributes came in from around the county with Championship side Oxford United holding a special minute’s applause in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat away to Bristol City.

The club also paid tribute to Jack with a statement that said: “Everyone at Oxford United is devastated to learn of the passing of U’s fan Jack Badger.

“We send our sincere condolences to Jack’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

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Wantage Town players pay tribute to Jack Badger before kick-off.Wantage Town players pay tribute to Jack Badger before kick-off. (Image: Wantage Town)

U’s legend James Constable added: “My thoughts are with all of Jack’s family and friends at this very sad time. RIP Jack.”

Abingdon had been due to face Didcot Town in the Hellenic Veterans Prem Division on Wednesday evening, but the fixture was postponed out of respect.

A GoFundMe page was set up to raise funds towards funeral and memorial costs as well as for his daughter.

As of Monday, September 23, the campaign had raised £28,075 with Oxford United manager Des Buckingham contributing £100.

Didcot and Wantage MP Olly Glover also paid his respects following the heart-breaking news of Jack’s tragic passing.

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“I am very sorry to hear of these tragic losses of life.

“My thoughts are with family and friends of the people who have died.

“Many fatalities on the railway are as a result of suicides, and I know that Network Rail and the train operating companies have, over the years, partnered with the Samaritans as part of work to help prevent such losses of life”

The Samaritans are ready to listen and be of assistance over the telephone at any time of day, on 116 123.

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