Family of former FC Halifax Town player Jordan Sinnott pay tribute to a 'true gentleman'

Police were called on January 25 to assist ambulance crews who were attempting to treat Mr Sinnott, a footballer with Matlock Town Football Club, after he was found unconscious with a suspected fractured skull following an incident at around 2am in Retford.

Nottinghamshire Police launched an investigation after Mr Sinnott died in hospital just before 6pm on Saturday January 25, surrounded by his family.

Three men have been charged in connection with the incident.

In a statement, Mr Sinnott’s family said: “Just before 6pm on January 25 2020 our hearts were completely broken when we said our goodbyes to Jordan.

“Jordan was the love of our life. He was kind, gentle, funny and lived his life to the full each and every day.

"He was a true gentleman. He absolutely loved his football and from an early age we knew he was determined and driven to succeed.

“Nothing will ever be the same again without Jordan in our lives. It will leave a void that can never be filled.

“He was taken from us far too soon and no amount of time will make this easier.

“The response we have had from family, friends and the public has been overwhelming and as a family we cannot thank each and every one of you enough.

“Jordan touched so many hearts in his life and will leave behind a legacy.

“We find it hard to understand and accept how anyone would want to hurt our gentle boy which resulted in his death.

“Jordan carried a donor card and as a family we respected his wishes. We are so proud that he had given the greatest gift that anyone could give to another person. Life!

“We take comfort that through this selfless act Jordan lives on and that someone will live and lead a better quality of life.

“We cannot thank the emergency services enough for helping us through the most horrific time of our lives. We thank the ambulance staff, Northern General Hospital in Sheffield, the organ donation services and the police.

Yesterday Mr Sinnott’s brother, Tom Sinnott, spoke to Radio 1’s Newsbeat in tribute. He said: “My brother Jord – there’s not enough words to describe him. Out of everyone, he was the best person I ever knew.

“You expect brothers to fight all the time, but we never had a fight, we never raised voices to each other. I don’t think I ever heard him shout to be honest, unless it was on the football pitch. There was so much love in the kid.”

Detective Chief Inspector Rob Routledge, who is now leading the investigation, said: “Jordan was clearly a much loved young man and my thoughts are with his family and friends as they struggle to come to terms with his loss.

“Mr Sinnott’s family has asked for their privacy to be respected at this incredibly difficult time.

“We are still keen to speak to anyone who may have information about the events of Saturday night. Please do come forward if you know anything which could help our investigation.”

If anyone has information or video footage please report it through the correct channels by calling Nottinghamshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting the dedicated online portal here.