Clitheroe teenager killed in train line horror

Tributes have been paid to a Clitheroe teenager who died after being struck by a train.

Lee Bialecki (18) was found on the railway line close to Walsden train station near Todmorden at 3-20 p.m. on Friday. Police have ruled out any suspicious circumstances.

Lee, who was a former pupil of St Michael and St John’s Primary School and St Augustine’s RC High School, was studying a degree course in computer science at Manchester Metropolitan University.

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Mr Anthony McNamara, the headteacher at St Augustine’,s described Lee as a “lovely person”. He added: “He was a gentle and well-mannered pupil. He had an unblemished record throughout his time with us and we were very fond of him. My colleagues are deeply upset by this dreadful news. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.”

His form teacher throughout his time at St Augustine’s, Mrs Toni Hudson, the school’s Head of Music, said: “Lee Bialecki was a mature, intelligent and unassuming young man. He had a wonderful sense of humour and a unique perspective on life. Throughout his time at school, and beyond, he had a great interest in technology and music, and would share his love of these to anyone who would listen.

“Lee was a thoughtful, genuine person who had a bright future ahead of him and it was a pleasure to have known him. He leaves his family and friends with many fond memories.”

A spokesman for British Transport Police confirmed the incident: “British Transport Police were called to the line close to Walsden railway station on Friday, June 17th, following the report of a man being struck by a train.

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“BTP and West Yorkshire Police officers attended the incident, which was reported to police at 3-20 p.m. and is currently being treated as non-suspicious.

“Paramedics from the Yorkshire Ambulance Service also attended but the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.

“A file will be prepared for the coroner.

“The train involved was the 2-48 p.m. Manchester Victoria–Selby service.

“The line was handed back to Network Rail at 5-43 p.m.”

• More tributes in this week’s Clitheroe Advertiser and Times. Please leave your thoughts and tributes below for Lee.