by Tricia Jamieson

tjamieson@thekmgroup.co.uk

The family of a student from Folkestone who died when he was hit by a train have paid tribute to a "happy son".

Matthew Greer, 21, of Military Road, Sandgate, a former Harvey Grammar School pupil, was a third-year English and journalism student at Coventry University.

He died recently just outside Rugby station when he was hit by a Euston to Coventry train.

Matthew's mother Anne said he had dreams of becoming a journalist. She and her husband, Philip, have been to Coventry to meet their son's friends and lecturers.

"They were amazing," said Mrs Greer. "They said such positive things about him. It was very comforting and we got a lot of strength from that. They confirmed what we thought which was Matthew was very happy."

Mrs Greer said Matthew's death was a "tragic accident, a young man being silly".

Although an investigation is still under way for the coroner, she said the family thought Matthew was trying to get from one platform to the other when he was hit by the through train. A post mortem revealed he died from multiple injuries.

The incident happened just north of the station, about 200 yards from the platform. Brian Price, spokesman for British Transport Police, said: "No one else was with him at the time. We are not treating the death as suspicious."

Matthew was born in Belfast and the family moved to Folkestone when he was just over a year old. He has a sister Holly, 23, who has just qualified as a doctor. Matthew went to Sandgate Primary School and then to the Harvey Grammar, going to Coventry University straight after his A-levels.

While in the sixth form he worked part-time at Argos in Folkestone to pay for his car, a Renault Clio.

Mrs Greer added: "People have been amazing and we have had so many messages of support. We are lucky to have family around us."

Bill Wright, principal of the Harvey Grammar School, said: "Matthew is remembered fondly by staff here at the Harvey, many of whom taught him during his seven years with us. It was a great shock to us all."

Ali Bushnell, spokesman for Coventry University, said Matthew had been very popular with both staff and students.

She added: "Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends."

The Coventry coroner has been informed and an inquest will be held.