Friends and family gather at Canterbury's Dane John Gardens to remember 18-year-old Tom Watson following his tragic death

The relatives of an 18-year-old who died in a tragic train accident last week gathered this afternoon to “beautifully celebrate” his life.

Those close to the popular Tom Watson gathered for a vigil at Dane John Gardens in Canterbury to remember the larger-than-life figure.

Candles, flowers and cards have been left at the park's bandstand in memory of the teenager who died when he fell onto a live track at Canterbury East station after a night of drinking in the city.

His parents, Candy and Ted, said yesterday that his death last Friday had left “an unfillable hole” in their hearts.

They said their son was “the center of the party” and would be missed by all who knew him.

Tom's friends have set up a Facebook page called “Tom Forever18” in his memory and have gathered in Canterbury today for a memorial service.

A post on the page said: “What a beautiful celebration. It was the most beautiful thing to see all of Tom's loved ones from all walks of his life come together to honor his memory.”

“It was beautiful to see so many people, flowers and candles brought in Tom’s honor.

“This is not goodbye, it's see you next time.”

“Remember, Tom would want us all to enjoy life to the fullest.

“Rest in peace, Tom, we will love you forever and ever.”

Archie White added: “Today was a very sad and emotional day. We laughed, hugged and cried. But most importantly, we all came together to pay our respects to Tom, a wonderful soul.”

Former Folkestone Academy pupil Tom was excited to start studying English at the University of Lincoln next week and dreamed of becoming a secondary school teacher.

His parents said he had been enjoying a “great evening with friends” before accidentally falling onto a live track at Canterbury East station.

British Transport Police were called just before 9:30am last Friday morning after his body was discovered on the tracks.

Although Tom's family does not want to talk too much about the circumstances, they say there is “clear evidence” that he had no intention of ending his life.

“Tom had everything to live for and was looking forward to college. He even talked about it on that tragic night,” his mother said.

“As a family, we don’t want to focus on how Tom died, but how he lived.

“As hard as this is and as much as our lives will be, we want everyone who knew and loved our larger than life boy to remember him living a full life.

“He was caring, cheeky, funny, loud, noisy, always on the move, dancing, singing, talking and loved by everyone. That's how Tom wants to be remembered.

“We were surrounded by total love and thank everyone who supported us during this time.”

A GoFundMe appeal has also been launched to raise money in his name for Demelza Children's Hospice, with almost £1,000 already donated.

Tom leaves behind his mother Candy, his father Ted, his three siblings and his extended family and friends.

BTP states that his death is not considered suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.