Pupils of Whitby High School have rallied to celebrate the life of a much-loved classmate who died after being struck by a train at Capenhurst station on Monday, January 26.
Friends and teachers of 16-year-old sixth-form student Oscar Phillips donned bow ties last Friday in memory of the ‘thoughtful, individual young man’ who liked to wear them.
Pupils are also organising a memorial event at the school on Friday, February 13, when balloons will be released into the sky.
Whitby High School headteacher Bryn Heeley has described Oscar as ‘a credit’ to both the school and his family.
He said: “He was a bright, polite young man who was popular with his many friends, his wider peer group and with the many staff that have taught him throughout his time with us.
“With age came confidence and he had developed into a thoughtful, individual young man who was a credit to his family and to our school community.
“His loss will continue to be felt for a considerable time.
“Oscar is already greatly missed within school and on behalf of the Whitby High School I would like to extend my most sincere sympathy to his family and friends.”
Mr Heeley added that both commemorative events were spearheaded by Oscar’s peers: “The students really want to show their respect and love for Oscar.
“It is about them channelling their grief into something positive.”
In a statement released through British Transport Police, Oscar’s family paid tribute to their ‘dearly loved son’ and thanked well-wishers for their support.
A Facebook page In Memory of Oscar J Phillips - which had nearly 3,000 likes when the Pioneer went to press on Tuesday, February 3 - has been created as a ‘memory journal’ and invites anyone with photos or videos of Oscar, or messages, to share them.
One Facebook user said: “Oscar, every time I saw you there was a smile on your face. I never heard anyone say a bad word about you. Sleep well. Rest in peace.”
Another posted: “Oscar you were beautiful inside and out. It was a pleasure knowing you & you’ll be sadly missed by so many people. Sleep in peace beautiful boy.”
The funeral of Oscar Phillips will take place at 3.20pm on February 18 at Chester Crematorium, Blacon Avenue, Chester.
Rather than flowers, the family are seeking donations which will be given to charity.
