Parents pay moving tribute to son, 11, who died on railway track - The Rugby Observer

Parents pay moving tribute to son, 11, who died on railway track

Rugby Editorial 30th Jun, 2017   0

PARENTS of an 11-year-old boy who died at Daventry International Rail Freight Depot (DIRFT) have paid a moving tribute to their ‘thoughtful’ and ‘talented’ son.

Harrison Ballantyne died after sustaining serious electrical burns near the rail depot on Tuesday (June 27). Emergency services were called at 5.20pm, but sadly nothing could be done to save him.

They said: “Harrison was our beautiful son. In less than 12 years he filled our lives with happiness. His lively character lit up the room.

“Harrison was a kind and thoughtful boy who shared everything and always thought of others. He was a talented sportsman and had developed into a great footballer who was well-respected by his team mates.




“Harrison was an outgoing boy and loved to be active and outside exploring, climbing and getting muddy. Life was an adventure that he sought out to the full.

“Harrison is not only a son, he was a brother, grandson, great grandson, nephew, great nephew, cousin and friend.


“His cheeky smile and witty humour keeps us smiling and a huge piece of all of us has gone with him, never to return.

“His innocence and inquisitive nature led him to the railway track, stealing him from this world so soon after he arrived. We will struggle to live without him.

“Tributes have poured in and we realise now just how wide his circle of influence has reached.

“We pray that this is not the end and he is able to see in some way how much he is loved and cared for.

“Harrison, we will love and miss you always and will carry you with us forever.”

Family liaison officers continue to support Harrison’s family and enquiries into the circumstances surrounding his death continue, although they are not being treated as suspicious.

Superintendent Chris Hodgkiss from British Transport Police said: “Our thoughts are with Harrison’s loved ones and we are working very hard to give them the answers they need at this difficult time.

“Understandably, his death has come as a great shock to everyone who knew him. His friends who were at the scene have all now been spoken to and offered support, as have pupils at his school. Officers have also been patrolling the area around the line to ensure children stay away.

“Following Harrison’s death, we cannot stress enough the dangers of the railway.

“If you haven’t already, please speak to your children about the hazards and help us prevent further deaths and injuries this summer.”

Visit www.btp.police.uk/realitycheck for more information.

A family friend has started an online fundraising campaign to help Harrison’s family and create a memorial for him in his home village of Crick.

In just two days, nearly £5,500 has been raised – far exceeding the initial target of £1,000.

Visit www.gofundme.com/crick to donate.

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