|
Freddie Wyvill died suddenly in the early hours of Saturday 15 December 2007 due to heart failure, aged 23.
Freddie was the loving son of Charles and Maggie Wyvill, and younger brother of D'Arcy, Edward (E95), and Kate. He was also the nephew of Paul Hardcastle (E66) and Anton Hardcastle (E69), the brothers of Maggie.
Freddie or Fred as he was affectionately known was brought up at his family home, Constable Burton Hall. It is here where he was happiest, surrounded by his adoring family and the countryside to which he was devoted.
Freddie was a true countryman, an exceptional shot and a superb fisherman. He was never happier than when ‘out and about’ with a gun or a fishing rod in his hand, and his dog Grinton and in more recent years Connie hot on his heels. He was a remarkable shot who took no more pleasure than going out in the early mornings with his brothers, to see if there was a pigeon or two about. This was typical Fred and why he truly was a countryman, he would like to test himself against the difficult quarry, which required effort and an intricate understanding of his and their surroundings. Fred appreciated and loved animals, because of this he gave them the respect they deserved; consequently he had a unique affability with them.
Freddie went to Aysgarth Prep School, near Bedale, in 1990 where he made an incredible number of life long friends, through his intangible talent to make people laugh coupled with his ability to get along with everybody. After leaving Aysgarth Fred spent two happy years at Gilling Castle. In 1997 Freddie moved across the valley to St Edward's House.
Under Fr Edward Corbould he was encouraged to pursue his art work in which he excelled. He was not surprisingly brilliant at drawing wildlife. Such was his skill that the Heron eventually became his signature. No doubt perfected over numerous years of doodling (although I am sure not in lessons)! Fr Edward also encouraged Fred’s love of the countryside, he made him chief rabbit catcher in the garden as well as attempting to tie him down as head gardener.
Fred took a bit of tying down; he had a wonderful twinkle in his eye and a mischievous character. Like all boys Fred got into trouble but unlike most he would never be in trouble for long, such was his endearing charm. The house was never quiet with Fred in it; laughter would echo around as he told story after story, he was a great comedian and mimic. An all round showman but never a show off.
While in St Edward's he made many of his closest friends, a lot of whom had followed him through from Gilling and before that from Aysgarth. The loyalty that Fred exhibited towards his friends knew no bounds. He valued friendship more than anyone and this was shown not just in his relationship with his nearest and dearest but with everyone he encountered. He had the remarkable ability to be able to get along with everybody and because of this he was universally adored. So much so that everyone saw Fred as a best friend.
After Ampleforth Freddie took a gap year where he travelled to the East Coast of Australia mixing work and play. He worked for a conservation company and enjoyed the night life to the full. On his return to England, Fred was immediately drawn back to the countryside and its animals; initially he worked as a lambing assistant before returning home to the Yorkshire Dales, of which he was so proud.
In September 2003 he started at Newcastle College doing a Business course. In the Toon (as Freddie called it) as with anywhere he went, Fred made a huge and lasting impression. His recipe for this was a concoction of been a true gentleman and comedian. In 2005 Fred had a three month placement as a ship broker in Norway. He left for Oslo not knowing anyone but typically returned knowing everybody.
Freddie went to Cirencester in September 2005 and took a diploma course in Property Agency and Surveying. This he successfully completed in June 2007. Cirencester was Fred’s niche somewhere he could mix his country, academic and social life. This was a winning a blend, as was his new job at MotorSport Magazine, here he could combine his unique people skills with his passion for cars. Naturally however the Friday night train from London back to the country always had Fred on it. Freddie had been at MotorSport Magazine for just three weeks, long enough to earn a fitting nickname, ‘Fun Fred’; he made an immediate impression in every sense.
Freddie was unfortunately born with, as he would put it, a "dodgy ticker", which is ironic considering that for those who knew him he had a heart of gold. If you were lucky enough to have met Fred you wouldn’t have known of his heart problem. He lived life like he drove his cars, in the fast lane. He made the most of every opportunity and every occasion. He will be sorely missed by his loving family and many friends. He was a unique character and a true gentleman; he leaves behind many happy memories and plenty of laughter.
He is being remembered in the prayers of the community at Ampleforth, and that of his family, and friends. SHM
One near Ampleforth contemprary writes:
I have very prominent memories of Freddie having dinner at our house and he was always so brilliant in manner. He was and I feel I should say is, but he was such great company and a true friend to everyone and I mean everyone. Not just the popular boys, but everyone. He is/was a true SHAC legend
OA Deaths 2007
Home
|
Deaths
