A UNIVERSITY has paid respect to a talented footballer after he was killed in a tragic helicopter accident.

Jack Fenton, 22, was on holiday in Greece when he was killed by helicopter blades after being unaware the propeller was still spinning.

The former vice-captain of Oxford Brookes University’s football team stayed involved with the side, even after his graduation.

A spokesperson for the university told the Oxford Mail: “It is with great sadness that we received reports of the death of Jack Fenton, one of our alumni.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time. 

“Jack was a keen footballer and helped lead his team as vice-captain, keeping everybody positive and enjoying the opportunity to play, even in a Covid affected season.

“He continued to support the football club after his graduation as an active alumnus.”

The university appealed to students affected by Mr Fenton’s death, to seek help from the support network available at the higher education institution.

The spokesperson added: “Students directly affected by the news who wish to have emotional support from the university, can contact Student Support at wellbeing-recpt@brookes.ac.uk.

“We would like to remind all students of the support services available to them, especially Togetherall which is a 24/7 online mental health platform.”

Read more from this author

This story was written by Liam Rice, he joined the team in 2019 as a multimedia reporter.

Liam covers politics, travel and transport. He occasionally covers Oxford United.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Liam.rice@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter @OxMailLiamRice