Teen who died in crash was 'part of rugby family'

A school and a rugby club have both paid tribute to a popular teenager who died in a car crash shortly before Christmas.

Sid Brook, 18, lost his life when the Ford Fiesta he was driving crashed into a front garden in Baildon, near Bradford, in the early hours of 20 December.

A 17-year-old girl who was a passenger in the car was seriously injured.

In a statement, Guiseley School said he had been a "much-loved" student and had finished his GCSEs there in 2023.

A spokesperson added: "He was a great classmate, loyal friend, and great team-mate on the sports field.

"He still has a number of friends in the school who will miss him greatly, particularly in our current Year 13 cohort and friends across the school who knew him as a team-mate at Aireborough RUFC.

"Our thoughts are with Sid's family and friends. Sid will always be remembered and loved."

Following his death, the teenager's family described him as "a beautiful son, brother, cousin, grandson, nephew and friend to many".

Aireborough RUFC in Yeadon said Mr Brook had played for the club's teams since the under nine age group.

"Sid was part of the Aireborough family, putting on the shirt with pride. From those early mornings on muddy pitches to the friendships, laughs, and memories made along the way, Sid grew up within this club and left his mark on all of us.

"He wasn't just a team-mate; he was a friend, a brother, and a true Wolf. His commitment, spirit, and presence around the club will never be forgotten, and his memory will live on every time we gather, play, and support one another.

"Our thoughts are with Sid's family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him during this unimaginably difficult time."

West Yorkshire Police said the Fiesta could have been travelling in tandem with a white Suzuki Swift SZ3 just prior to the crash.

Officers have arrested three 18-year-old men on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and a 40-year-old man on suspicion of dangerous driving and assisting an offender.

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