Over 100 floral tributes have been placed at Croesyceiliog AFC’s ground in tribute to Tom Moreton.
The 19-year-old Cwmbran man was reported missing at around 2am last Sunday. His body was found in the River Usk at around 6.15pm that same day.
His football club has led tributes to their player and encouraged his friends and teammates to meet at the club to talk and remember him. Last night at 6pm the club’s first meeting took place and dozens and dozens of flowers have been placed on the edge of the pitch. Three large silver balloons spell out ‘Tom’.
One tribute is from the PE department at Croesyceiliog School who wrote ‘Tom was a superb athlete, footballer and all round superstar’.
The club plan to meet again this evening at 6pm but the ground is open throughout the day if anyone wants to visit.
In a statement on Twitter a club spokeperson said last night: “This gathering this evening in honour of Tom Moreton turned out better than we could have expected. This evening, we honoured Tom in the best way possible, and the way we hoped Tom wanted it to be, surrounded by each other.
“We shared stories, we talked about Tom and it was filled with tears, laughter but most of all love. Thank you for those who attended but also thank you to anybody who couldn’t attend tonight but had Tom and his family in their thoughts.
“We will also be hosting a gathering for people to attend tomorrow (Tue 26 June) at 6pm. However, the ground will be open for people to place flowers during the day with all the other flowers placed there.
“We are going to miss you Tom, and you will always be loved.”
On Sunday the club spokesperson said: “Tom was a fun-loving and kind young man, he made all of us laugh with his humour and quick comebacks.
“Tom was also a very talented player and he will forever be missed and loved by the players, management and committee of Croesyceiliog AFC. Our support and love goes out to Tom’s family, friends and every single person affected at this time.
“We are always here if anybody needs to talk.”
Tribute from Croesyceiliog School
The PE department wrote: “Our sincere condolences. Tom was a superb athlete, footballer and all round superstar. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. Croesy PE xx.”
