Family’s tears for bridge-fall teenager

POPULAR . . . Ben Fitchett

THE shocked family of a talented 14-year-old musician who died after falling from a motorway bridge have spoken of their devastating loss.

Crompton House School pupil Ben Fitchett plunged from the bridge on the M62 eastbound near to junction 20, close to the Oldham border, at 7.20am on Monday. Police have passed the case to the coroner.

Ben’s family and friends are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of a popular lad who played percussion for Oldham Music Centre and Blackburn and Darwen Brass Band.

They paid tribute in a statement: “Family and friends are shocked and devastated by the sudden and unexpected death of Benjamin.

“He was a popular pupil at Crompton House School.

“He was a dedicated and hard-working pupil who excelled at history, drama and art.

“He will be fondly remembered for his fantastic sense of humour and his ability to make everyone smile. He touched the lives of so many people, leaving a positive lasting impression on those around him.

“His family and friends and the local community have been overwhelmed and comforted by the love, prayers and support from everybody.”

Sergeant Danny Byrne, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “My thoughts are with Ben’s family at this devastating time.

“If you saw a young man on Broad Lane, the bridge across the M62 close to junction 20, around 7am on Monday morning we’d be interested to hear from you.”

Call police on 0161-856 4741.