Remembering Richie Jordan - plans move forward for memorial seaside bench in honour of tragic dad and footballer

Plans to create a lasting memorial to a loving dad and respected footballer have taken a step forward.
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Richard Jordan, known as Richie, lost his life in August following a crash on the A19 near Houghton, where he was a passenger in a car.

His death united the local footballing community, of which he was a huge part, and prompted dozens of touching tributes from family, friends, teammates and colleagues.

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Richie pictured with daughter Quinn and partner Carol.Richie pictured with daughter Quinn and partner Carol.
Richie pictured with daughter Quinn and partner Carol.

The £3,000 target was met in a matter of weeks – and now, a memorial bench is in the process of being made.

It will be placed at the seaside, giving his family a peaceful place to visit and reflect over the treasured time they spent with Richie.

His partner Carol has spoken of the kindess she, the couple’s daughter Quinn, and their families have felt since the footballer died.

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She said: “Firstly, on behalf of myself, Quinn, Richard’s mam Veronica, dad Mike and sister Olivia, I would like to say thank you to everybody who has helped fundraise for the memorial and for all the kind thoughts and messages left for us via the JustGiving page.

Richie has been fondly remembered by family, friends and the footballing community.Richie has been fondly remembered by family, friends and the footballing community.
Richie has been fondly remembered by family, friends and the footballing community.

“A particular thanks to Kate Reay who organised this for the family. We all love and miss Richard so much and we will always keep his memory alive. Thank you so much.”

The memorial will give his whole family somewhere special to think of the well-respected footballer and “lovely lad” who touched the hearts of so many.

The dad played for Sunderland RCA, Ryhope CW and Grangetown Florists over the years.

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It is hoped that the bench will be placed in Whitburn, near Latimer’s Seafood, in due course.

Richie's partner Carol King and the couple's daughter Quinn.Richie's partner Carol King and the couple's daughter Quinn.
Richie's partner Carol King and the couple's daughter Quinn.

A spokesperson for South Tyneside Council said: “We are pleased to be able to help install this memorial bench and hope that it can bring some comfort to Richard’s loved ones.”

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