TRIBUTES have been paid to a Hampshire footballer who was killed on a former level crossing a few miles from his home.

An inquest has been opened into the death of Lyndhurst FC player Patrick Norum, known as Paddy, who died of multiple injuries after being hit by a train.

The inquest heard that the incident occurred at Ashurst Bridge Road in Totton on July 16.

Fellow players at Lyndhurst FC, the current Hampshire Premier League Division 1 champions, have been left devastated by his death.

Writing on social media the club said: "Such sad news for the club. RIP Paddy, you will be missed from all new and old players."

One social media user posted: “Your personality was infectious and I know for a fact everyone at the club is in absolute bits about the news."

Another added: "You will be missed. You were one of the reasons I enjoyed playing for Lyndhurst."

Last Saturday the club posted a celebratory tweet after notching up a pre-season victory against Pewsey Vale Football Club.

It said: “This was also our first home game since the devastating news of the passing of one of our own, Patrick ‘Paddy’ Norum. That one’s for you, Paddy. Rest in peace."

Mr Norum, of Romsey Road in Lyndhurst, died on the track in an area known as Foxhills.

As reported in the Daily Echo, police and paramedics were called to a former level crossing shortly before midday but the footballer was pronounced dead at the scene.

Rail services between Brockenhurst and Southampton were suspended for several hours after the power was switched off to allow the emergency services to deal with the incident.

Mr Norum's death is not being treated as suspicious. A full inquest is due to take place at Winchester Coroner's Court on December 3.