Tributes to student killed on road

12:42pm Tuesday 25th September 2007

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TEACHERS and friends of a star student killed in a road accident at the weekend have paid tribute to him.

Alex Ludlow, a student in the upper sixth form of Eltham College, Grove Park Road, Mottingham, was on his was home from a rugby match when he was killed in a collision with a passing car on Saturday (September 22)afternoon.

The 16-year-old grade-A student, who was put up a year because of his outstanding academic ability, got off the bus outside his home on Elmstead Lane, Elmstead Woods, when the accident happened.

Alex's father witnessed the collision and was on the scene quickly.

Police officers performed first aid on Alex, who was severely injured, but he died at the scene.

Headteacher of Eltham College, Paul Henderson said: "Alex was a delightful young man on the brink of a bright future.

"His manner was always calm and he appeared self-contained but was popular with his peers and respected by staff."

Alex, who was one of two children, loved all sports, particularly rugby and had just finished playing a game of rugby for the first team.

The all-rounder also took part in Duke of Edinburgh expeditions in the summer and had just started rehearsals for the school musical as a member of the chorus.

Mr Henderson added: "He will be most remembered as a confident young man with a smile on his face and a friendly hello on his lips.

"He was one of the academic scholars in his year and had planned to go to university at Warwick.

"When he first came from junior school he had been a quiet boy but had blossomed when he reached the sixth form.

"It is a tragic loss."

Friends of Alex have left flowers, cards, photographs and his Eltham College rugby shirt as a tribute to "an amazing friend".

A card signed by Ayo read: "To a real sportsman and a role model to all."

The mother of one of Alex's best friends at the memorial site said: "It is beyond belief.

"The boys and girls are so distraught. He was so loved."

An inquest into Alex's death was opened and adjourned today.

A driver has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

The South East Traffic Collision Investigation Unit is investigating.

Anyone who has any information should call 020 8285 1574.

• If you knew Alex and would like to post a tribute or a message of condolence, add your comments below.