Gravesend teenager George Buckley remembered at balloon release
11:21, 14 September 2019
updated: 10:14, 15 September 2019
This is the emotional moment friends and family of a teenager who died last weekend set of balloons in his memory.
People gathered at Park Place in Gravesend last night to remember George Buckley, 15, who died after falling on tracks at Swanscombe railway station last Sunday.
Watch his friends and family release the balloons
In the video sent to KentOnline hundreds of red and white balloons were let go followed by a cheer from the crowd.
It comes days after his family paid an emotional tribute to him and flowers were laid where the Gravesend resident died.
Emergency services were called to the station at around 7.45pm, but the football-mad teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.
Friends of George, who went to Northfleet Technology College, have been meeting at the station to light candles every night, in memory of their friend.
On Tuesday the aspiring electrician's family spoke out after the tragic incident.
They said: "He was caring, funny and full of life. He loved his family and adored his friends.
"We are all devastated by the death of our handsome boy George.
"He was caring, funny and full of life. He loved his family and adored his friends.
“George was a typical teenage boy who was football mad and always had been since he was a baby; obsessed with his Xbox and up till God knows what time.
"He was such a popular boy and was loved by everyone who met him.
“This tragic accident has caused us to lose our baby boy and we are all devastated.
"We can’t imagine life without him and we will miss him forever, he’ll always be in our hearts and will never be forgotten.
“Sleep tight and find your thumb my baby boy.”
An Instagram page has been set up by friends to share their memories, pictures and videos of George and has more than 1,000 followers.
Northfleet Technology College joined hundreds in paying their respects to George.
Headteacher Jane Partridge said: "George loved football and he was working hard to achieve his aspiration of becoming an electrician. George’s cheeky smile and kindness will be sorely missed by the NTC community.
"Our thoughts are with George’s family and his many friends, both in and out of school, at this terribly sad time.
"The school has arranged for support for students and staff who have been deeply affected by this tragic event."
A JustGiving page has been set up to help George's family with any costs - so far it has raised more than £3,500.
A post from Paul Cottrell, who set up the page, said: "This awful tragedy has devastated his family and friends. Words just cannot express the loss felt by all who knew George.
"I know people will want to help as I do, so anything you can give would be greatly appreciated.
"RIP George, we miss you, and will never forget you."
British Transport Police have said officers are still conducting inquiries into the cause of the death but "at this stage it is being treated as a tragic accident".
A report for the coroner is being prepared.
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