Nottingham Forest hold minute’s silence for boy hit by train

Nottingham Forest have held a minute’s silence in memory of teenager Joshua Travis, who was hit by a train in Nottinghamshire.

The 14-year-old, who was a former academy player at the club, died after being hit by Burton Joyce on Wednesday evening.

British Transport Police (BTP) said Joshua’s death was not being treated as suspicious. The investigation is ongoing by the Railway Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB).

On Sunday, players and supporters held a minute’s silence at Forest’s City Ground before the Premier League game against Brighton.

Players on both sides also wore black armbands.

In a tribute on social media, Forest said they were “deeply saddened” by the death of Joshua, who was previously the academy goalkeeper.

A number of Nottinghamshire-based clubs also paid tribute.

Aspire FC, based in Gedling, said Joshua was a “brilliant goalkeeper and a great character”, adding that he made a real impact in his age group at the club.

The club said it had postponed all games over the weekend out of respect for Joshua and had arranged for an online fundraiser to support his family.

In a statement released via BTP on Saturday, Joshua’s family said he was “a boy with incredible energy for life, an infectious and mischievous smile, kind bright eyes and lots of love to give”.

Several floral tributes were also left at the scene at the Chestnut Grove footpath level crossing in Burton Joyce, which was initially closed to the public for 21 days.

The Railway Accident Investigation Branch said it is conducting a preliminary investigation into the fatal incident.

An RAIB spokesperson said that a decision on any further action in relation to the case would be taken after a review of the evidence collected by inspectors.

Mark Budden, Network Rail’s route director for the East Midlands, said: “Safety is our top priority and we are fully supporting the RAIB as part of their ongoing inquiry.”