A graduate from the School of History passed away last Sunday.

Matthew Cragg, who was 21, was originally from Surrey. He graduated from the University in June, with a degree in History.

David Tebb, Student Support Officer in the School of History said the following in an official tribute: “Matthew was a keen rugby player and appeared a very fit young man. I found him a very personable young man and he was always pleasant.”

Dr. Simon Hall, who was one of Matthew’s seminar tutors while he was at Leeds, said the following: “It was a particular privilege to have had the opportunity to teach Matt. He was a popular and well-liked member of the class, and wrote a terrific dissertation.”

He added, “What I will remember most of all about Matt is the friendliness, kindness and generosity that shone through in his character, and which made him such a lovely student to teach.”

Another of Matthew’s tutors, Dr. Rafe Hallett, said: “I was struck by his strength of opinion in the seminar room, his desire to get to the bottom of difficult topics, and the way he always took advice and guidance with real reflection and care. Most of all, he displayed a striking openness, a real authenticity of character that drew affection from those around him at the University, in times of study, sport and sociability.

The Leeds University Rugby Union also paid tribute to Matthew via their official Twitter page,

“To mark the tragic passing of a true Gryphon and an unbelievable friend, teams will be wearing a black armband in remembrance of Matt Cragg.”

Tributes to Matthew have poured in on social media since his tragic passing.

Jack Bell, who was Matthew’s team-mate on the Leeds Gryphons, posted this tribute on his wall: “Another terrific bloke taken from us too soon. You’ll be missed bro. Gryphons never die.”

Matt Olivier-Lovett also posted this in tribute to his friend: “You really were one of the best of us. Go well my man and God Bless. X”

Sean Hayes