**Family’s Holiday Homecoming Ends in Devastation After Fatal M5 Crash**
A family from Derbyshire has been left shattered following a tragic accident on the M5, as a return journey from a Cornwall holiday ended in heartbreak. The fatal incident, which occurred at approximately 9pm on Friday 30th May, claimed the lives of three family members: Andy Moore, Swala Harling, and their teenage son, Sebastian Moore. Their vehicle was involved in a single-vehicle collision between junction 14 and the Michaelwood Services in Gloucestershire.
The couple’s eight-year-old daughter miraculously survived the crash, sustaining serious yet non-life-threatening injuries. She is currently recovering, but faces the terribly difficult prospect of navigating life without her parents and brother. News of the tragic event has rippled through local communities, touching both those who knew the family personally and those who have heard their story.
In the wake of the tragedy, a close friend established a fundraising page to support the young girl through her recovery and to contribute towards the funeral expenses for her family. The response has been swift and compassionate, with over £14,000 donated to date. The initiative aims not only to help fund the immediate costs but also to provide some stability and comfort for the little girl as she adapts to a drastically altered future. The heartfelt message on the page appeals to the public’s sense of solidarity in the face of loss, asking for contributions to ease her burden.
The rugby community, with which the Moore family were deeply involved, has expressed collective grief. Sebastian Moore was a promising young player who recently joined Chesterfield Panthers RUFC as part of their Under 15s squad, having previously played for Tupton Rugby Union Football Club. Club statements from both sides have remembered Sebastian as a kind and cheerful presence, dedicated to his team and highly regarded by his team-mates and coaches alike.
Chesterfield Panthers RUFC released a moving tribute, noting, “Seb was always willing to listen, always with a smile, and always giving his best for the team.” The club also highlighted Andy Moore’s positive influence—his support and friendliness left a mark on all those around him. Swala Harling, while not as involved in the rugby community, was praised for the warmth and affection she brought to her family, and her loss is keenly felt among all who knew her.
The clubs have communicated their condolences to the bereaved friends and relatives, especially the Moore’s surviving daughter. The rugby fraternity has also rallied to support the ongoing GoFundMe drive, encouraging donations and offering words of solidarity. Tupton Rugby Club, sharing the family’s story on their platforms, pleaded for continued support for the orphaned girl as she embarks on her path to recovery.
Avon and Somerset Police have acknowledged the sensitivity of the case, with Inspector Mark Vicary extending his sympathies to the family and confirming that specially trained officers are providing support. The police are appealing for witnesses or drivers with dashcam footage of the incident to come forward, in a bid to ensure a thorough understanding of how the tragedy unfolded.
The aftermath of this crash has triggered a wave of mourning across Derbyshire and the wider rugby community, while also demonstrating the power of community action and kindness in times of disaster. Fundraising will continue in the hope of easing the journey ahead for the surviving daughter, whose resilience in the face of unimaginable loss has already been noted by family friends.
As investigations proceed, those affected are urged to take care of their mental health and seek support where needed, with national charities and helplines such as Mind, Samaritans, and the NHS 111 service offering help to anyone affected by the news. The story serves as a sombre reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of community support when misfortune strikes unexpectedly.