Inquest into Keighley RUFC player Sam Walker's death concludes

Samuel Joseph Walker, known widely as Sam, rose up through Keighley RUFC’s junior ranks.

He progressed to the first team between 2007 and 2017 and scored 43 tries in 127 appearances.

He played at a semi-professional level for Huddersfield Rugby Union Football Club before returning to his hometown’s team.

When he wasn’t working as a gas fitter and plumber, he was mentoring the next generation of sportsmen at Keighley RUFC.

In an inquest held at Bradford Coroner's Court on Friday, assistant coroner Angela Brocklehurst concluded the 34-year-old of Woodside Drive, Cottingley, died on March 27, 2023, by suicide.

He leaves behind three children.

Sam with son Bailey (Image: Family handout)

Born on August 15 at Airedale General Hospital, Sam was the eldest of three sons.

Reading parts of a statement written by Sam’s mother, Ms Brocklehurst said: “He took to being a big brother very well. They were very close.”

She added: “As a young child he was taken to see Cougar Cubs Rugby Club. Sam loved playing and it always gave him the opportunity to get rid of any excess energy or frustration he had during his teen years. 

“He then went on to play rugby union. 

“He returned back to Keighley second team to be able to mentor younger players. They saw each other as brothers. It was some of these friends who were pallbearers at his funeral.”

Describing his school life, the letter read: “He was popular with his mates.”

He found a sense of direction after school thanks to one of his teachers. 

The teacher helped him secure an apprenticeship in plumbing and tiling.

“He was a hard worker and never took time off,” Ms Brocklehurst said.

He worked with them until 2015 when Sam decided to set up his own business, Norsemen Plumbing and Heating.

During his time in business, he employed one apprentice.

After deciding to close the business, he worked as a sub contractor for British Gas. 

“Sam had an interest in motorbikes,” Ms Brocklehurst said.

“He managed to get a Harley Davidson which he enjoyed taking to rallies and charity runs. He also found friendships from that hobby. He did what he always wanted to do which is take the Route 66 drive.”

Speaking directly to Sam’s family, the assistant coroner said: “It’s difficult to understand the death of someone in these circumstances but it’s a death nonetheless, and the grief and accepting that death is a long journey for you now to make.

“This is the end of the legal aspect relating to Sam’s death, it’s therefore a line to be drawn and walked over for all of you. You all loved Sam. What I say to you now is when you think of him, don’t think about the bad times. Think of the good things, the happy times you had together and keep those memories close and talk about him to those you love. Sam would have loved that.”