TRIBUTES have been paid to an “outstanding student” who died last week after he was struck by a train near Bures.

Andrew Towers, 20, of Monks Eleigh, who was studying chemistry at Durham University after obtaining four A* grade A-levels in physics, maths, further maths and chemistry, has been described as “brilliant” and “lovely” by his grieving friends.

Following his death last Tuesday, those who attended the local youth club with Andrew left tributes, including a signed football shirt, on the village green.

One of the messages read: “You will be sincerely missed to all that know you, and you will never be forgotten.” Another simply said: “You were the best friend I ever had.”

Youth worker Barry Jewitt said Andrew was a keen footballer and a “wonderful person”. He added: “He was a really great guy and everyone at the club last Friday was completely gutted about what has happened. He was extremely bright.”

Andrew’s grief-stricken parents told the EADT they were still too shocked and upset to talk about their son. Wayne Lloyd, headteacher at Thomas Gainsborough School in Great Cornard, which Andrew attended said: “He was a quiet, popular and intelligent young man with a big future ahead of him.”