Tributes as Ashton ‘Iron Man’ passes away

Andrew with his vintage Midget in Switzerland — Andy with his vintage Midget in Switzerland

Tributes have been paid to Ashton man Andy Cutler who has passed away.

Andy was dubbed ‘Iron Man’ after he was diagnosed with heart failure in 2017 and became the recipient of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), which kept blood pumping through his heart. At the time Andy was given no more than two years to live.

Andy’s boss Dave Watters, Chair of Supalite Group, told Blog Preston of his deep sadness at losing ‘a very dear friend’.

Dave said: “Andy started work for Celtic Vista (now Supalite) in 2013, working as an HGV driver and helping in the factory between runs.

“He was an excellent all-rounder who quickly bought into the ethos of a growing company and was a great help to me.

“As the business expanded, we acquired larger premises, moving to Walton Summit in 2014. It was a natural progression for Andy to become Transport Manager, responsible for planning deliveries and managing a growing fleet of vans and trucks.”

Andrew in his LVAD vest — Andy in his LVAD vest

Sadly, Andy became ill while on a motorcycle trip to Germany in 2017.

Dave explained: “On returning home and visiting the doctors and subsequently having several hospital appointments, Andy discovered he had a very serious heart condition. He’d apparently had it from birth but it had never affected him before.

“He was told he would need a heart replacement which was clearly a shock. In true Andy spirit, he accepted his lot and lived with the LVAD for a while until a heart replacement could be found. His health recovered sufficiently for him to return to work in a role with less responsibility and hours.”

When he was well enough, Andy embarked on a fundraising road trip on the continent with his good friend Steve.

The pair travelled to Switzerland and Germany in Andy’s vintage MG Midget, raising thousands for New Start, the charity based at Wythenshawe Hospital that was instrumental in seeing Andy receive the LVAD.

Dave continued: “When COVID struck, Andy felt it was time to take stock. He sold his house and bought a barge which he berthed on the Lancaster Canal. He retired from work and got a dog, Frankie, to keep him company as he sailed up and down the canal.”

Unfortunately, Andy’s heart condition recently deteriorated, and he died on Saturday 17 September.

Dave added: “In memory of Andy, a minute’s silence was held at work across all sites on Tuesday 20 September.

“Andy was well-loved by all his friends and colleagues at work and will be sadly missed.”

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