Memorial night for Hartlepool expat who died in tragic mining accident in Australia

Howard Prosser, 64, who emigrated to Australia in 2006, died as a result of injuries he sustained in the accident at the Roy Hill iron ore mine in Western Australia where he worked in January.

His funeral was held in Australia last month. Howard’s son Liam Prosser, who lives in town, was able to attend at the short notice after friends raised over £2,000 online.

His family are holding a memorial service on Saturday, March 14, for friends back in Hartlepool to pay their respects to the much-loved dad-of-five.

It takes place at the Corporation Sport and Social Club, in Whitby Street, from 7pm and all are welcome.

Paying tribute to his dad, Liam previously said: “Dad loved Hartlepool. He had many friends family and colleagues and will be deeply missed.”

Howard, a plater and boiler maker, was married to Sue and also dad to daughters Jodi, Lani, Zoe and Chelsea.

He was well-known in town having played football and cricket in his younger days.

Later he gave his time as a football referee and cricket umpire.

He also loved Hartlepool United following them both home and away at hundreds of matches.

Howard was also a keen collector of Pools programmes, even after he moved to Australia.

Liam added: “He was an avid program collector and if he couldn't make a match he would make sure someone picked up a program for him.

“Even when he moved to Australia in 2006 I'd get a call asking me to get him programmes and talk about the game.

“He also loved to referee and umpire and I'm sure many reading this have been on the pitch or a spectator at a match.”

Friends who rallied round to help the family after Howard’s sudden loss were Gary Cunliffe who set up the GoFundMe page, St Francis FC which held sponsored walks, Ami Zumba Ford raising money for Liam’s wife while he was in Australia, and Shelley and Paul Jones of 23 Taxis.