FRIENDS and family of a popular 15-year-old who died after he was hit by a train have paid tribute to him.

Kieran Ash, from Chester-le-Street, County Durham, was killed on Monday morning on the East Coast Main Line.

He was struck while on the track at Birtley Junction, between Durham and Gateshead, at 7.10am.

Kieran had been a pupil at Lord Lawson of Beamish Academy in Birtley and his sudden death has devastated his school friends. 

Principal Mark Lovatt said: “Kieran was a popular student with a group of very close friends.  

“This is a tragic loss of a young life and all our thoughts are with Kieran’s family at this difficult time.”

His family said Kieran had been a loving son and brother.

A statement issued on their behalf said: “We are devastated by the news and Kieran will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”

British Transport Police were called after the incident was reported and immediately launched an investigation.

A spokesman said that there were no suspicious circumstances and that a file will be prepared for the local coroner so an inquest can be held to determine the circumstances surrounding Kieran’s death.

Officers, together with the North East Ambulance Service, were called following reports of a body on the line. 

He was pronounced dead at the scene.  

All lines were closed until around 8.45am affecting a number of services, with trains terminating at Darlington and Newcastle.

A Facebook page, Remembering Kieran Ash, has been set up so people can share memories and pictures of him.

It already has over 225 members and friends have been paying tribute to him on his page.

One message read: "Missing you so much Kieran, can't believe you’re gone. I love you so so much, heaven has gained a gorgeous angel. Don't have too much fun without me."

Another message said: "Heaven's gained a gorgeous boy - one in a million."

A third added: "RIP Kieran mate - grew up with ya, so sad for someone so young to be taken away."