In this article, which is part of a series on the 12 stories in the Harrogate district that shaped 2025, we look back at the huge outpouring of grief that followed the death of teenager Bailey Chadwick. 

Pateley Bridge in the heart of Nidderdale is usually the sunniest of places, but a dark cloud has hung over the town since July 20.

In the early hours of that Sunday morning, 19-year-old Bailey Chadwick was walking home from Pateley Bridge to Glasshouses.

Bailey, who had been socialising with friends after working at the Royal Oak, is believed to have been crossing the B6265 when he was struck by a car.

His death devastated not only those who knew him, but an entire community.

The Sheffield Wednesday fan, who was due to go on holiday to Thailand in the week ahead, was a popular figure in the area and his lonely death led to widespread grieving.

Police patrols in the area aimed to reassure residents and gather information.

In a statement issued by police, his family said: “We just can’t believe he will never come home again. We will miss him more than any words can say.”

The Royal Oak closed its kitchen as a mark of respect and described Bailey as “the most loveable, caring, trustworthy, happy, smiley, beautiful young man we have ever had the honour of working with”. It added: “There’s is a rather large hole to fill both personally and professionally for each and every one of our team.”

In a sign of how deeply Bailey’s death was felt, St Cuthbert’s Church in the town stayed open late in the days that followed for private prayers. Reverend Darryl Hall said: “The door is open for anyone who needs a space to reflect, grieve, or simply be still.”

'He should be living his best life'

A police press conference was held alongside the B6265 at Lupton Bank, three days after Bailey’s death. His mother Dayle Knights tearfully described her son as a “normal, happy, outgoing 19-year-old who had his whole life ahead of him" before breaking down. His stepfather Daniel Horler took over and said Bailey should be “living his best life and seeing a new country”.

By now a shrine to Bailey had appeared at the point alongside the B6265 where a footpath leads to Glasshouses. Various items, including flowers, cards and beer cans, lay beneath the shadow of a giant Sheffield Wednesday flag.

An online fundraising appeal by Bailey’s sister Daniella Chadwick raised £18,665 for his funeral, which took place on August 8. The cortege left his home in Glasshouses and drove to St Cuthbert’s for the service. For the wake afterwards at the Memorial Hall, Bailey’s family invited guests to wear clothes bearing a picture of an owl — the mascot of Sheffield Wednesday.

Police investigation

While all this was happening, a North Yorkshire Police investigation was taking place. After various developments, officers announced on December 22 that a 25-year-old man had been charged with driving a motor vehicle when over the prescribed limit and using a motor vehicle on a road/public place without insurance.

He is due in court on February 12. Officers added: “It’s important that we stress that our investigation remains active; the same man is still being investigated for the offence of causing death by dangerous driving.”

A woman in her 20s, who was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, remains under investigation.

The Stray Ferret will report further developments.