AN INQUEST into the death of a Winchester 18-year-old who was struck by a freight train at the city's railway station is due to be resumed this afternoon.

Saints fan Eddie Pearse had begun working as a business administration apprentice at Age Concern Hampshire, in St Cross Road, weeks prior to the incident on February 7 this year.

His death, which is not being viewed as being suspicious, prompted the railway station to be locked down for hours as Hampshire Police, South Central Ambulance and British Transport Police all attended the scene.

At the inquest opening his death was said to have been caused by multiple injuries.

Eddie's funeral was held at Winchester Cathedral in late February.

The teenager, of Western Road, Fulflood, grew up in Winchester, attending Westgate School and Peter Symonds College.

A keen and talented sportsman, he played for the Littleton Leopards junior team until he was 16.

His family, comprising father Jeremy, mother Caroline, sister Hannah, and brothers Nick and Alex were left devastated by his premature death, as were Eddie's many friends.

A gig was held in his memory at Winchester's Railway Inn in June, with proceeds going to The Samaritans.

Father Sky Sports producer Jeremy said at the time of his son's death: “Eddie was a lovely boy and everyone who met him really loved him.

“He only lived for 18 years but he fitted a lot in.”

Westgate School headteacher Paul Nicholson said: “Eddie was a lovely, wonderful, bright, pupil who made a fantastic contribution to our school.

“I knew him as somebody who was very hard working, conscientious and committed to his studies.

“He quietly got on with whatever was asked of him and was very committed to doing his best at school.”