'Beyond tragic': floral tributes to Hoghton train crash victim as fundraiser exceeds target

Flowers have been left at the scene of a level crossing crash in Chorley that claimed the life of a young mother.

Several of the floral displays bear poignant tributes to 33-year-old Kerry Coombes who was killed in the accident on Station Road in Hoghton on Thursday (25th June) when the vehicle she was driving was hit by a train.

Capturing the sense of shock and sadness at her loss, one of the handwritten cards starts with the words, “Beyond tragic”, while another says the Lancashire County Council social worker was “loved by many” and will “never be forgotten”.

A third simply states: “I will love you forever, my beautiful best friend.”

An eight-year-old girl who was also in the vehicle was badly injured and is in a critical but stable condition in hospital, according to the most recent update issued by police on Friday evening.

Meanwhile, a fundraising effort set up to help with funeral costs and any other financial pressures faced by the family surpassed its £5,000 target withing 48 hours of being launched. By early Monday morning, the JustGiving page had seen £7,940 donated.

It was established by Lostock Hall Juniors Football Club, where Ms. Coombes had been “a valued volunteer coach and committee member” for 14 years.

In a post on Facebook, the club said: “This fundraiser has been created to support Kerry’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Funds raised will help with funeral expenses, support Ava’s recovery, and provide some financial security for Kerry’s children in the months ahead, helping to ease some of the immediate pressures they now face.

“Every donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping Kerry’s family in your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.”

On the fundraising page, the organisation added: “Kerry was a much-loved mum, daughter, sister and fiancée whose kindness, warmth and dedication touched so many lives. Her loss has left an immeasurable void for her family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

“For more than 14 years, Kerry was a valued volunteer coach and committee member at Lostock Hall Juniors Football Club. She devoted countless hours to supporting the club and, most importantly, the children and young people within it.

“Her encouragement, commitment and caring nature helped shape the experiences of so many families, and her impact on the club community will never be forgotten.”