Devastated family of boy killed by train ‘will miss him forever’

The family of a young boy who died after being struck by a train have paid tribute to a boy with a “mischievous smile” and “kind sparkling eyes.” Joshua Travis, 14, died at the scene after the incident on Wednesday, leaving his family devastated.

British Transport Police (BTP) said officers responded to reports of a casualty on the tracks in Burton Joyce, Nottinghamshire, on Wednesday, shortly after 7pm. BTP officers said the incident is not being treated as suspicious. The boy’s family said in a statement: “Josh was a lad with an incredibly (sic) energy for life, an infectious and mischievous smile, kind sparkling eyes, and so much love to give.

“He leaves a gap in our lives that is and will always be impossible to fill, and we will miss him forever.”

The teenager was a talented footballer who had previously played in goal for Nottingham Forest Academy.

The club paid tribute to the 14-year-old on social media, saying: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of our former academy goalkeeper Josh Travis.

“Our thoughts are with Josh’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”

Flowers have been left by mourners close to the site of the incident, with groups of teenagers seen paying their respects.

Aspire Football Coaching previously confirmed that it had decided to postpone all games this weekend to pay respects to Joshua and his family.

They said: “Josh was a fantastic goalkeeper and a great character in the group,” the coaching school added. “Everybody that came across Josh described him as a pleasure to have around with his polite and funny nature.

“Josh made a real impact in his age group, both as a footballer but more importantly as a person and will be sorely missed at the club.”

Network Rail said it requested the emergency closure following Joshua’s death.

The railway firm’s route director for the East Midlands Mark Budden told the BBC: “Our immediate thoughts are with the family and friends that have been affected by this tragic incident.

“Safety is our top priority and we are fully supporting the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) as part of their ongoing inquiries.”