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Aylesford teenager and former Maidstone Grammar School pupil Terry Shambler killed by bus in summer holiday tragedy in Ayia Napa in Cyprus

A teenager has been tragically killed after being hit by a bus on the second day of a holiday with friends in Cyprus.

Terry Shambler was fatally injured in the popular clubbing destination of Ayia Napa on Friday – just a month after celebrating his 18th birthday.

The teen, who lived in Aylesford, had only recently finished the sixth form at Maidstone Grammar School.

Terry Shambler died in an accident in Cyprus a month after turning 18
Terry Shambler died in an accident in Cyprus a month after turning 18

In a statement, his heartbroken family said: "We are truly devastated and just can't believe what has happened.

"Terry was an amazing son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to so many.

"It still hasn't sunk in and we have now got such a massive hole in our lives. He will always be loved and never forgotten."

The fun-loving teen had taken to Twitter to express his excitement about the trip with friends.

On the day of his departure, he wrote: "This plane needs to take off."

Tragic Terry Shambler pictured on the scooter he recently bought
Tragic Terry Shambler pictured on the scooter he recently bought

Having just finished school, Terry was waiting to receive his A-level results before deciding whether or not to enrol in college.

His passions included music and he played the guitar, attended festivals and gigs all over the south east.

Terry's devastated family said the former MGS pupil enjoyed nothing more than going out with his wide circle of friends.

He was also a keen sportsman and particularly enjoyed rugby.

Terry played for Aylesford Bulls, based in Hall Road, from the age of seven until he was 16.

However, he was forced to hang up his boots because of a knee injury.

Teenager Terry Shambler playing rugby, which he did for Aylesford Bulls until an injury forced him to stop at 16
Teenager Terry Shambler playing rugby, which he did for Aylesford Bulls until an injury forced him to stop at 16

A club spokesman said: "Aylesford Bulls Rugby Club is in shock at the news of the passing of Terry.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends at this difficult time."

Terry, who was learning to drive, bought himself a scooter a year ago.

His relatives said he "enjoyed the freedom" the bike gave him.

Although the incident happened abroad, it is likely his death will be referred to the Mid Kent and Medway coroner.

The Famagusta Gazette newspaper reported the driver of the bus, a 60-year-old Greek Cypriot, was being questioned by police about the incident, which happened on the main tourist road in the Makronissos area.

The busy main road in Makronissos, Ayia Napa
The busy main road in Makronissos, Ayia Napa

Devastated friends of Terry have used Twitter to share tributes and memories of the well-loved teenager.

Hannah Tree described him as "genuine and care-free", while Alfie Law tweeted: "Such sad news. Got some great memories with you, always the life of the party. RIP Terry Shambler."

Amy Dunster wrote: "Rest in peace... you will never be forgotten," and Naomi Bottle added: "The most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said and never explained."

And Elliot Barnes said: "Thoughts go out to his family who are honestly the nicest people on the planet. RIP mate."

Terry's death is the second tragedy in less than a year for the Aylesford Bulls.

On New Year's Day, Augustine Carnell, 17, died in a crash on Blue Bell Hill. The teen, from Rochester, played for the club's under-17s team.

Did you know Terry Shambler? Leave your tributes below.


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