Family pays moving tribute after Cotswolds boys dies

Harrison Aylott. <i>(Image: British Transport Police)</i>
Harrison Aylott. (Image: British Transport Police)
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A 15-year-old Cotswolds schoolboy has died across the Oxfordshire border, with his family now paying tribute.

BTP officers were called to the line in Blockley at 8pm on Monday (June 8) to reports of a casualty on the tracks.

Paramedics also attended, but the 15-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.

The victim's family have now publicly named him as Harrison Aylott in a moving tribute published today via British Transport Police.

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Harrison’s family said: “Our beautiful boy Harrison was the light in our lives and had everyone laughing within minutes of being in his company.

“His relationship with his brothers was so special, and to see them laugh together brought us so much joy.

“We’ve had so many lovely messages from his friends telling us just how cherished he was by them and how much joy he brought to them all. Please continue to send any photos you have of our lovely boy.

"You have no idea how special they are to us right now.

“He was the kindest boy with the biggest heart, and while nothing will heal this pain, we will continue to carry him in our hearts forever and ever, and we encourage all who loved him to do the same and think of all the places he will go. Our dear boy, we love you so much.”

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Harrison was a Year 11 pupil at The Cotswold School in Bourton-on-the-Water, and the school also issued a statement this week.

"To follow the communication that was sent out to parents and carers yesterday, and after speaking with the family, we can now give you more information," said the release.

"On Tuesday morning, we were made aware of the death of Harrison Aylott, a Year 11 student.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Harrison’s family and friends, and with everyone affected by this sudden loss. This includes the students and staff at The Cotswold School and Chipping Campden School, where Harrison studied before joining us in January 2026.

"Harrison quickly became a valued member of our school community. He made friends with ease, embraced the opportunities available to him in Year 11, and brought warmth and positivity to those around him.

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"He brightened our school, was a genuine pleasure to teach, and is a student who will be remembered with great fondness by all who knew him."

"We will continue to provide care and support to the students and staff of our community during this incredibly difficult time.

"Such a tragic event will impact people in different ways, and we will continue to put in place support for as long as is needed.

"We encourage you, as parents, to speak to your child about how they are feeling and that they can seek support from yourselves, the school and other professionals.

"You can access guidance and advice here. If your child would like to talk to someone in school, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

"We continue to be committed to supporting our community during this very difficult time."

The Samaritans offer a 24/7 helpline, which can be reached for free from any phone on 116 123.

They can also be contacted via email at jo@samaritans.org or through the Samaritans website.

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