Teenager dies after Christmas party

William was killed crossing the road near the airport

A talented goalkeeper has been killed in a road accident as he walked home from a school Christmas party.

Sixth-form student William Hunter, 16, died after a collision with a taxi in the early hours of Thursday.

He had enjoyed a festive party for school friends at a hotel near Newcastle Airport and was walking home with a friend when the accident happened.

William's mum Tania said his friend, Craig Stobbard, had tried to pull her son back when he tried to cross the road.

He will be greatly missed by those who knew him

David Pearmain
Headteacher

He was hit as he crossed a sliproad onto the A696 dual carriageway with a friend on his way to his parents' home at 0120 GMT.

Mrs Hunter said: "He was a brilliant lad and everybody loved him. We just can't believe he's gone.

"I just want to go to sleep and find it has all been a bad dream.

"At least Craig was with him when he died. He wasn't alone."

William's headteacher at Kenton Comprehensive, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, paid tribute to the "popular" pupil.

'Fine sportsman'

Sixth-form lessons at the school were cancelled on Thursday as news of his death was revealed.

Headteacher David Pearmain said: "On behalf of the staff and pupils I have offered our deepest condolences to William's family.

"This is terrible news and we're offering support to staff and students in school who are shocked and deeply upset by this tragedy.

"William was very popular, both with students and teachers and was a fine sportsman and a successful, hard-working engineering student.

"He will be greatly missed by those who knew him."

The teenager was studying sports leadership and engineering and was a popular player with local side Montagu and North Fenham Boy's Club.