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A family has been left heartbroken after a young man died in a “tragic accident” just two weeks after fulfilling his dream of moving to Australia.
Luke Beaufils, from Ashford, has been described as a “wonderful” lad who “deserved the world”.
More than £13,000 has been raised via a GoFundMe page towards efforts to bring his body back to the UK and his funeral.
His sister Abigail Beaufils, who started the fundraiser, wrote: “As many of you know, my baby brother Luke two weeks ago followed his dreams of moving to Australia to start a new life down under.
“I and my family have honestly never seen Luke so happy.
“Unfortunately on Sunday, a tragic accident led to my little brother passing away unexpectedly.
“Although it’s the most heartbreaking time for our family and Luke’s close friends, the main priority is for us to bring Luke back from Australia to England and lay him to rest where he belongs.
“I would like to use this page for anyone who knew Luke to be able to share the good times and memories and if anybody wishes to help give him the best send-off that he deserves surrounded by everyone who loved him just as much as we did.”
Hundreds of people have donated and offered messages of support.
One person wrote: “RIP Luke boy. I’m absolutely gutted to hear the news.
“I will always remember the good times we had together since meeting in primary school.
“You will always be my best friend no matter what. Rest easy big man.”
The campaign has also been shared several times on social media.
One person wrote on Facebook: “I can’t believe it, brother. We had some memories together.
“It’s so sad this has happened and I wish it didn’t bro.”
Another shared similar sentiments, writing: “The most heartbreaking tragic thing has happened.
“Luke was a wonderful lad. We are devastated beyond words.
“Please, if you can spare anything help get Luke home.”