DEVASTATED family and friends have raised almost £7,000 to cover the funeral costs for a 22-year-old student from Abingdon who was hit by a train.

Romello McCook, who was studying Architecture at Plymouth University, was hit near Plymouth Laira Depot on September 30.

Following the news, an online fundraiser was created by Fitzharrys School, where Mr McCook was a former pupil and his father Lawrence teaches design and technology. Headteacher Jonathan Dennett said: "Romello is remembered very fondly by all who knew him for being a thoroughly good young man with an infectious smile. Mr McCook’s tutor group wanted to provide some practical support and that prompted the Just Giving page."

He added: "The warm messages and kind donations show the respect and affection that the Fitzharrys community as well as wider friends and family have for Mr and Mrs McCook, alongside their happy memories of Romello. At times like these people want to be able to help, and everyone has been touched by such positive support. Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time."

So far £6,917 has been raised by 330 supporters, including a £500 donation from the school.

Dozens of messages have also been shared expressing shock, support and memories of the student, who was originally from Jamaica but moved to England as a child. Tom Herridge wrote: "The world has lost one of the kindest and most genuine souls that I have ever had the pleasure to be friends with."

In a post on the justgiving.com page Mr Dennett posted a message from his colleague, who said: “It is just amazing and overwhelming to see so many people just giving and leaving all those wonderful thoughts and wishes for us. We cannot even begin as we are lost for words to express how deeply moved we are.”

The 22-year-old's funeral is set to take place tomorrow in Trinity Church, Abingdon at 12pm. Refreshments will be served at Fitzharrys School after the service. It is requested that everyone wear colourful clothing, with the student's favourite colour being lilac.

Donate by searching justgiving.com for Romello McCook. Funds not used for the funeral will go to the British Association for Music Therapy.

An inquest was opened an adjourned into Mr McCook's death earlier this month.