A memorial day has been held for Orpington teenager Paul Bagnall, who died in a tragic accident earlier this year.

The 18-year-old Darrick Wood School pupil was found hanged at his home in Dryland Avenue on January 7.

His mother, Sandrine, told an inquest last month she thought he had slipped while "trying to stage a Tudor hanging" as he searched for a costume for an upcoming school play.

 

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Event organisers (left to right) Karen Ridley, Jeremy Ridley, Simon McDowell, Sue Charman and Tracy McDowell

He played rugby for Westcombe Park Wildcats and Darrick Wood, and team mates from both took part in a series of matches at Queen Mary's University of London sports ground in Chislehurst on Sunday (April 6).

Around 200 people turned out for the day, including Paul’s parents, Nick and Sandrine, and sister Lauren, who brought his daffy duck, kitted out in his Wildcats playing shirt and red scrum cap.

An auction and raffle were also held, with the money raised going to Paul’s favoured charity, Help for Heroes.

 

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Champagne moment after the matches

Paul's Wildcats team mate Jeremy Ridley said: "An awesome day, with all the boys looking tremendous in their Darrick Wood kit and the customised Wildcats shirts, showing Paul’s photo, his squad number and in the Help for Heroes colours.

"This was a real celebration of Paul, his love of rugby and all the friends that he made over the years with both teams."

Andy Hammond, who went to Darrick Wood School with Paul, added: "This was an excellent day and a fitting end to our season and to celebrate Paul."