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School friends pay tribute to tragic train Sheerness teen Ellis Murphy-Richards

Classmates of Ellis Murphy-Richards have paid tribute to the tragic teenager who died after being hit by a train.

They organised a special 'service' at New Road playing fields, Sheerness , on Saturday.

Natasha Murphy and Ellis Murphy-Richards together at a Pride event
Natasha Murphy and Ellis Murphy-Richards together at a Pride event

His mother Natasha Murphy, 33, of Epps Road, Sittingbourne , said: "There was a beautiful tribute organised by a school friend for Ellis and many people joined in.

"Lots of thought must have gone into the memorial with Post-it notes so friends and family could leave messages. There were photos, balloons, flowers and two trans-flags, one of which was left by his six-year-old brother Oliver."

Oliver also lit a sparkler for Ellis who would have been 16 on Bonfire Night, November 5.

His mother added: "There was music played and people spoke into a microphone including a lady who gave details of where people could go for mental health and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) support.

"A singer sang beautifully. The turn-out showed just how much Ellis was loved."

Floral tributes to Ellis Murphy-Richards at New Road playing fields, Sheerness
Floral tributes to Ellis Murphy-Richards at New Road playing fields, Sheerness
Balloons tied to a fence for Ellis Murphy-Richards at New Road playing fields
Balloons tied to a fence for Ellis Murphy-Richards at New Road playing fields

She said that since his death she had named a star in his memory.

His funeral will be at the Garden of England crematorium on Friday, October 30. The family has asked that instead of flowers, donations can be sent to the MindOut charity.

His mum said: "This is a wonderful charity supporting those from the LGBTQ+ community who experience mental ill health. Ellis was very passionate about LGBTQ+ rights, equality and diversity."

A page in his honour has already raised more than £1,000 .

It says: "Ellis was very musical and incredibly bright. He had taken violin lessons, had his own guitar and also learned to play the nose flute (which divided audiences!).

"Ellis even learned British Sign Language so he could sing along to pop songs. A born performer, Ellis could be heard from far and wide, he was very silly and jokey and a star quiz master at family Christmases."

His family is also encouraging people to sign the Young Minds #BeyondTomorrow petition which is urging the government to take action to prevent young people's mental health needs from escalating.

Ellis died on September 30 after being hit by a train at West Minster . Although living in Faversham he had been a pupil at the Oasis Academy, Sheppey, and Highsted Girls Grammar School, Sittingbourne.

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