"A brilliant man" who was "a beacon for the younger generation": Tributes paid to assault victim

Tributes have been paid to the young man who was a victim of a serious assault at the weekend after the city has been left shocked and saddened to hear of his passing.

Freddie Fontete-Jones, 23, from Salisbury, died in hospital yesterday (23rd February 2022).

Last night, our MP and Mayor, John Glen and Caroline Corbin, Berry Telecom, Laverstock and Ford Sports Club, The Village Freehouse, and Bemerton Heath Harlequins FC, to name a few, flooded social media with tributes to Freddie describing him as "a brilliant man", "a true gent" and "a beacon for the younger generation".

Speaking to Love Salisbury, Salisbury's MP John Glen said, “This is the worst news and I offer my sincere condolences to Freddie’s family and friends.

“It is shocking that a night out in Salisbury could have so quickly turned to tragedy and I hope the culprits will face swift justice.”

The Mayor, Cllr Caroline Corbin, who was a friend of the victim said, "I will remember Freddie from the football days at cold Barry’s field at Winterslow. He had talent on the pitch.

"I can only think of his siblings and mum. Also, all the friends who will grieve a while."

Laverstock and Ford Sports Club wrote:

"Fred💚

"It is with incredible sadness and a hurting heart that we share news that our beloved Freddie Jones-Fontete has passed away following an incident in Salisbury over the weekend.

"An absolute tragedy and one that has hit us all hard. Love must be directed towards Fred's family and close friends. They need it more than anyone right now.

"He was a brilliant man, he lit up a room with his infectious smile. Was an enforcer on the pitch and made such a positive impact with all age groups across the club!

"We will miss you so much Fred! #Bulldogs #FJF 💚⚽🐶"

The Village Freehouse described Freddie as "a beacon for the younger generation." They wrote:

"A post that should never have been written.

"Freddie Jones R I P. You were a beacon for the younger generation, a true gent that was kind, funny, caring, thoughtful and someone who any person would be proud to say that they knew him.

"Though we only knew him over the past 3 years in all my 28 years of this trade I could not wish for a better customer, he was someone that you could instantly connect with, I and my fellow staff will miss his smile and presence.

"Taken from us at a far too early stage in his life. Our thoughts go out to his family and I know his name and memories will live on till the end of time
Freddie we love you ❤️"

Berry Telecom, paid tribute to a member of their 'Berry Family'.

"Our hearts are broken by the tragic loss of one of our berry family, Freddie Jones - Fontete.

"Taken far too soon, Freddie was one of the greats, a genuine, caring, kind and funny guy who was loved by us all. He brightened everyone’s day with his huge smile and charisma and always took the time to chat and check in with us all.

"We are all hurting from this unexpected and devastating loss. His family and close friends are firmly in our thoughts at this challenging time.

"Freddie loved his job and was a key contributor to our fun and vibrant culture. He lived our berry values; he was always encouraging to others, he had a huge drive and determination and a passion for success for both himself and his team mates.

"We will fondly remember his love of football, him talking about the game, leading the chants in the build up to the tournaments and his relentless kicking of ‘Freddie’s Football’ around the berry office.

"Freddie you will forever be a member of our berry family and we love you & will miss you terribly. ⚽️❤️"

The Bemerton Heath Harlequins also shared their condolences. Sharing their message on Facebook they said:

"Everyone at Bemerton Heath Harlequins are completely devastated to learn of the tragic passing, of our former player and friend, Freddie Jones-Fontete.

"Our thoughts & condolences are with all of his family and friends during these moments of immense pain. #Ripyoungman "

Connor Pool, 24, of Salt Lane, Winterbourne Gunner, appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court yesterday (23rd February 2022) and was charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm.

He will next appear before Winchester Crown Court on Friday 25th March.