THE HEARTBROKEN family of a teenager who died after being hit by a train at Blackminster crossing have paid tribute to an ‘amazing young man’.
Fraser Bennett, 14, was pronounced dead at the scene last Wednesday (January 22) after officers from British Transport Police and paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service were called shortly after 10.30am
In a statement, Fraser’s family said: “Fraser was an amazing young man, loved by everybody who knew him.
“Our hearts are broken and we are struggling to come to terms with our loss. We ask that everyone respects our privacy at this difficult time.”
The teenager was a Year 10 pupil at Prince Henry’s High School and staff from the school, led by headteacher Dr Tony Evans have been in constant contact with his devastated family since the tragedy.
Dr Evans said: “I know this will come as a terrible shock to the Prince Henry’s community and students and staff are extremely upset.”
“Fraser was a very popular young man, with many friends across the year groups. In the words of his teachers he was a delight to have in the class, he worked with a quiet determination and he was a very kind and polite student.
“Fraser was a keen sportsman, regularly playing for the school’s rugby, football and cricket teams. At last year’s Speech Day, he was the inaugural winner of the Ian Parkin Prize for Valour,” Dr Evans added.
School chiefs have been working with staff from Worcestershire County Council and The Samaritans to offer help and support to all those affected by Fraser’s death. Childhood bereavement charity Winston’s Wish has also provided support to the school.
Dr Evans addressed Year 10 students in a special assembly and said the whole school would support each other at this very sensitive and sad time.
“Fraser will be a shining star in our hearts forever. May he now rest in peace,” he added.
Officers continue to examine the circumstances surrounding his death however it is not being treated as suspicious.
An inquest into his death was opened and adjourned on Tuesday (January 28) by Worcestershire coroner David Reid
The Samaritans is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to offer help when it’s needed the most. Call 116 123 for free
