THE mother of a popular charity fundraiser found dead after being struck by a train last night spoke of losing “her rock”.

Steve Couchman, of Morton Avenue, Kidlington, was found dead on the railway tracks at Sandy Lane level crossing, between Kidlington and Yarnton, on Monday last week.

The 36-year-old’s death is not being treated as suspicious.

History enthusiast Mr Couchman helped to set up historical re-enactment society Fellowship of the Ox.

And he was well known for his charity exploits, which saw him take part in last year’s Oxford Mail OX5 Run, in aid of Oxford Children’s Hospital, dressed in a suit of armour.

Mary Couchman paid tribute to her “sensitive and caring” son, who always went the extra mile for charity.

The former Gosford School pupil was a carer for Mrs Couchman after she suffered a serious illness and became partially disabled.

She said: “I had a very bad illness about four years ago and since then Steve just took over.

“He was such a good son. I could not have asked for a better one.

She added: “He was my rock.”

Mr Couchman, who also leaves his brother John, 46, was planning to take part in this year’s OX5 Run wearing armour again.

Mrs Couchman said: “If I ever felt ill, he would be there. Even if he went out, he would take his phone with him and call to check I was okay.

“He was a sensitive man who was always doing something for charity. Even as a child, he was always collecting for something.

“My son was so patient and caring. We will all just miss him so very much.”

Sarah Vaccari, from the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals’ charitable funds team, said Mr Couchman had been an inspirational supporter of the Oxford Children's Hospital.

She added: “He not only raised hundreds of pounds himself, but encouraged many others to take part in last year’s OX5 Run and had signed up again for the event this March.

“The sight of Steve and his team, in heavy armour, completing the full five miles around Blenheim Palace last year is one that brought a huge smile to hundreds of people, and will never be forgotten.

“Last year’s event raised £57,000 in total, which paid for medical equipment that helps prevent cerebral palsy developing in some newborn babies.

“It’s thanks to the generosity of people like Steve that such incredible equipment can be purchased, and I hope this is some small comfort to Steve’s mum and friends, who of course we are all thinking of.”

Mr Couchman’s Facebook page indicated his state of mind before Monday’s incident.

He listed his favourite quotation, taken from the medieval code of chivalry.

It read: “Be without fear in the face of your enemies. Be brave and upright that God may love thee.

“Speak the truth always, even if it leads to your death. Safeguard the helpless and do no wrong. That is your oath.”