Two football clubs have paid tribute to a former coach who died alongside his dog in a house fire, describing him as an "inspiration to countless children across the Wirral". Mark Fawke, affectionately known as Fawksey, died after a blaze at his home on Beaufort Drive in Wallasey on Monday evening, October 19.
Tributes from Wallasey Village YFC
Wallasey Village YFC said "hearts are broken" following the death of Mr Fawke, who was a former coach and committee member at the club. In a heartfelt tribute, the club praised him for the time, energy and passion he devoted to grassroots football, saying his impact extended "far beyond the football pitch".
The club said: "Mark, you were so much more than a coach. You were an inspiration to countless children across the Wirral, giving your time, energy and passion to ensure young players of all ages had the opportunity to learn, develop and most importantly enjoy the game you loved."
"The impact you made went far beyond the football pitch. You gave children encouragement, opportunities and memories they will carry with them for years to come. Wallasey Village YFC was incredibly lucky to have you as a coach and former committee member."
"We will always be grateful for your dedication, the players you helped develop and the lasting difference you made to so many young lives. Thank you Mark for everything you gave to grassroots football and to the countless children who were lucky enough to be coached by you."
"You will be sadly missed but never forgotten. You will always be part of the Wallasey Village family. Rest in peace Mark."
Port Sunlight Village FC pays tribute
Port Sunlight Village FC, who Mr Fawke played for, also paid tribute, describing the club as "absolutely devastated" by his death. In a statement on behalf of the players, the club said: "Mark was a cracking lad and someone who will be missed by so many. He was one of the senior members of our team, bringing a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch, and always playing an important role in everything we did as a team."
The club added: "From the great nights out and the memories we shared to supporting our fundraising events and everything we tried to achieve together, Mark was integral to the club. His time, commitment and efforts were always hugely appreciated by the management and players alike."
It said his death had left everyone connected with PSV devastated, adding: "We have lost one of the good guys, a great teammate and, above all, a great friend. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Mark’s family and close friends at this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Mark."
Emergency response and investigation
Emergency services were called to Mr Fawke's home on Beaufort Drive at 8.38pm on Monday. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) said crews arrived four minutes after receiving the 999 call and found the ground floor of the semi-detached property "well alight", with smoke coming from the upper floor.
Six firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the house to search the property and tackle the blaze. Merseyside Police and North West Ambulance Service also attended. Mr Fawke and his dog were rescued from the property. The fire was extinguished at 9.06pm, and emergency first aid was administered to Mr Fawke at the scene.
However, he was pronounced dead by paramedics before he could be taken to Arrowe Park Hospital. Firefighters also attempted to resuscitate his dog, but it sadly died at the scene. When the ECHO visited the scene this morning, Tuesday October 20, the house remained taped off, with one police car parked outside.
A joint investigation by Merseyside Police and MFRS is under way to establish the cause of the fire. MFRS Area Manager Ged Knock said: "This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the family and friends of the occupier at this difficult time."
"A joint Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service investigation is underway to establish the cause of the fire. As an attendee at scene, I can confirm that fire crews worked hard in extremely difficult circumstances to perform both rescues and all three blue light agencies contributed with their all to preserve life."
"We are conscious of the impact on the community and will conduct a full reassurance programme for the area."
