Tributes to ‘gentleman’ who died after reports of burglary at his farm
TRIBUTES have been paid to a businessman who died on a farm following reports of a burglary.
Peter Cordwell, 48, is believed to have suffered a medical episode following the incident at Collop Gate Farm in Heywood, shortly before 11.15pm last Wednesday.
He was treated by paramedics but died later.
Hundreds of tributes have been to businessman Mr Cordwell, a father of three known affectionately as ‘Creamy.’
One told the Observer: “It’s a great loss, he was a true gentleman, kind and always happy to give advice. He supported local charity. And he wasn’t scared to say what needed saying.”
Another said: It’s so shocking and heartbreaking!! Such a lovely man with a smile on his face every time you saw him.
“He would do anything to help anyone and raised thousands for numerous charities over the years.
“His farm played a part in a lot of local events including his annual 1940s weekends which were spectacular, with real live tank rides. He had time for anyone and everyone. Nothing was off limits when it came to him.
“It’s such a tragic loss of such a big personality with an even bigger heart.
“He leaves a whole town shocked and heartbroken at his passing and a world just that little bit darker with a shining light extinguished but I know that his legacy will live through his family.”
Hundreds of people posted their own tributes online.
His daughter Pip posted a picture of her father and wrote: “The Man, The Myth, The Legend.”
Jan Booth Walker, writing on Facebook page, wrote: “RIP Creamy lad, taken too soon. “Top bloke. “Worked with loads of charities, will be missed by loads. Sending love to his family.”
Karl Taylor wrote: “RIP Peter (Creamy). A great guy pleasure to have known you. Condolences to all the family.”
Mr Cordwell was a wellknown figure in Heywood.
He was a director of Spodden Mill Ltd in the town, according to Companies House.
He was one of the owners of the farm on Manchester Road where he died.
Police were called to reports of a burglary at one of the units on the farm.
Collop Gate Farm was sealed off as an investigation ensued.
Crime scene investigators were pictured at the site.
Greater Manchester Police said officers were called to reports of a burglary at units of Manchester Road at around 11.15pm on Wednesday night.
“Officers attended and found a man - one of the owners - had subsequently suffered what is believed to have been a medical episode,” the force said in a statement.
“Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he sadly died a short time later.”
Neighbours at the scene said the man, who is understood to live nearby, had been alerted and went to the farm to investigate.
GMP said the burglars fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival.
No arrests have been made.
Detective Inspector Julie Maxwell said: “We believe the man suffered a medical episode but enquiries are ongoing and a post-mortem investigation will confirm the cause of his death.
“Our investigation is in the early stages but we are working hard to establish the full circumstances surrounding both the death of the man and the reported burglary.
“We understand that members of the public may be concerned by this incident.
“I would like to offer some reassurance by saying that, although we are keeping an open mind, there is evidence to suggest the burglary was targeted.
“Regardless, extra officers are in the area and will remain for the foreseeable future.
“Anyone who is concerned can speak with them.”
One neighbour told the Observer: “We saw flashing lights and the police and this morning, we got up to find police were everywhere. “This is a real shock to us.” Another neighbour reported that Mr Cordwell, who it is thought lived nearby, had gone to the farm after being alerted to a burglary at the farm.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 8441 quoting 3023 of 28/10/20 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.