The family of Craig Hurcombe, a beloved 39-year-old man from Rowde, has paid a heartbreaking tribute following the discovery of his remains in the Somerset village of Gurney Slade.
Craig’s remains were found on January 14 in the Roemead Road area, four days after he was reported missing to Wiltshire Police. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that the remains identified were indeed his.
In a moving statement, Craig’s parents, Nicola and Paul, described him as “the perfect son” and expressed the profound grief they continue to endure. “Craig was an independent man, and we are living with unimaginable loss and a huge hole in our lives which we will never come to terms with,” they said.
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Craig is survived by his eight nieces and nephews—Skye, Maddie, Riley, Tillie-Mae, Archie, Harvey, Oakley, and Brodie—who deeply miss him and struggle to understand his absence. Skye, his eldest niece, lost not only an uncle but a best friend with whom she shared many memories, including dinners out and trips to watch Bath Rugby.
A hardworking and ambitious individual, Craig was highly respected in his professional circle. His boss expressed gratitude for Craig’s dedication and contributions to the company.
He is also mourned by his siblings Laura, Jessica, and Ashley, all of whom are grieving the loss of a cherished brother whose promising future was cruelly cut short.
An avid rugby enthusiast, Craig played for Devizes Rugby Club, where he earned hundreds of caps and served as vice-president. His passion for the sport began at an early age, playing for Sheldon School, Chippenham Rugby Club, and Wiltshire and Dorset teams until age 18. Throughout his life, Craig built strong friendships within the rugby community, including memorable trips like the Lions tour to Australia in 2025.
The Devizes Rugby Club and numerous other clubs have paid tribute to Craig, recognizing his impact far beyond the pitch. His family’s statement acknowledged that his “meaningless death has affected so many people, both old and young.”
Michael Bretton, 40, from Shaftesbury, Dorset, has been charged with murder and one count of stalking involving fear of violence against a woman. He is scheduled to appear at Bristol Crown Court on Monday, July 13.