'An inspirational character who loved camping' - scouts pay tribute to teen struck by train (From Enfield Independent)

'An inspirational character who loved camping' - scouts pay tribute to 16-year-old Charlie Davis, from Winchmore Hill, struck by train in Cheshunt

1:40pm Monday 18th February 2013 in News By Hermione Wright

Shockwaves are spreading throughout the scouting community over news a popular teenager was killed by a train on his way home from college. 

National engineering student at Hertford Regional College, William Davis, who was known as Charlie, died when he was struck by a train on the level crossing at Cheshunt station just after 2pm on Tuesday.

The 16-year-old was a dedicated explorer scout who joined the 5th Southgate Scout Group in Winchmore Hill ten years ago.

Chris Foster, assistant county commissioner for scouts aged 14 to 24, said: “Charlie will be remembered for the positive impact he made on people. He was an inspirational character who loved camping.

“His three favourite scouting events were taking part in the Denmark Jamboree and Gilwell 24 last summer and completing the 2012 Southern 50 hiking competition in freezing conditions, which he did having somehow evaded the kit check, finishing the event wearing trainers and without a coat.”

Almost 1,500 people have joined a Facebook group to share photographs of Charlie and pay their respects to the former Highlands School student.

Charlie followed in the footsteps of his two older brothers by joining the beavers, cubs and scouts as part of the 5th Southgate Scout Group.

His friend, assistant explorer leader Emily Theobald, said: “Charlie Davis, you will be missed by everyone who knew you. You truly did light up the hearts of all of those around you.

“You will never be forgotten. Forever in our hearts and minds. We love and miss you dearly.”

Bill Brand, district explorer scout commissioner for Southgate district, said the scouts were “deeply saddened” to learn about Charlie’s sudden death.

He said: “I had the privilege of seeing him grow up within the scout movement and shared numerous camps and activities with him, including a trip to the Danish Jamboree last summer.

"Charlie was immensely popular with his fellow scouts and left a positive impression on everyone he met.

"He was always keen to help and be involved, always polite and will always be loved and remembered by everyone who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

Andy Forbes, principal at Hertford Regional College in Broxbourne, remembered Charlie as a "polite", "well-spoken" and "enthusiastic" student.