Tributes to ‘diamond’ Hebburn scout for work at Blackburn Rovers, Middlesbrough and Sheffield Wednesday

Tributes have praised Karl as an “incredible person to be around”
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Tributes have been paid to a 'fantastic' Hebburn man who "touched so many across the professional and non-league scene".

Football clubs across the country have taken to social media over the last 24 hours to offer praise and thanks to Karl Newton, who passed away after being involved in a 'tragic accident'.

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He had been walking in the Lake District with friends at the time of the accident on July 1.

Karl most recently worked as a Techincal Recruitment Analyst for Blackburn Rovers, but grew up in South Tyneside and had played a vital role in the development of local clubs.

On Monday night, Blackburn Rovers shared in a message on social media: "We are devastated to learn of the tragic and untimely passing of Karl Newton, who recently joined the club as a technical recruitment analyst.

"The thoughts of everyone at Rovers are with Karl’s partner, Louise, and his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

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Karl grew up attending non-league matches at Hebburn Town FC, as a ballboy and programme seller before becoming a kitman and a scout.

Karl most recently worked as a recruitment analyst at Blacburn Rovers (Image: Getty Images)Karl most recently worked as a recruitment analyst at Blacburn Rovers (Image: Getty Images)
Karl most recently worked as a recruitment analyst at Blacburn Rovers (Image: Getty Images)

Hebburn Town wrote: "It’s with great sadness that we share a member of our football family, Karl Newton, sadly passed away on July 1 after being involved in a tragic accident.

"Karl followed Hebburn Town from a young age helping his dad Stephen as a committee member - as a ball boy, kitman, programme seller, and most recently scouting and coaching in various roles.

"Karl was a fantastic person, who loved his football and touched so many across the professional and non-league scene. The football club send our deepest condolences to all of Karl’s family at this difficult time."

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Karl's work as a scout also reaped benefits for South Shields FC and the club honoured him as an "absolute diamond" last night.

A Tweet added: "Karl was a key part of our recruitment team at SSFC and a simply incredible person who was a joy to be around.

"It would be impossible to meet anyone with a negative word to say about him."

As a youngster, Karl attended Springfield Comprehensive school in Jarrow before moving on to South Tyneside College.

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Years working as a graphic designer, energy consultant and customer service manager preceded a switch into scouting.

Karl then went on to work with Stockport County, AFC Fylde, Sheffield Wednesday, Middlesbrough and Leyton Orient, as well as local Tyneside clubs.

Hundreds of messages came flooding in as Karl's passing was announced on Monday night, leaving his family "overwhelmed with all of the kind words".

Commenting on Blackburn Rovers' Facebook post, Tracey McDonald said: "I am overwhelmed with all of the kind words and messages for my brother Karl.

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"He had a huge heart and didn't have a bad bone in his body, always willing to help anyone and when he walked in a room he brought with him sunshine and laughter.

"His family appreciate all of your kind thoughts, words and prayers.

"It warms our hearts and gives us such comfort knowing he touched so many people's lives in such positive ways. Thank you xxx"