More than 5,000 sign petition calling for safety improvements after teenager's death

Francis Cantlow has campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness of mental health issues in youngsters since the death of his 14-year-old brother Kayden.

Kayden, a pupil at The Gilberd School in Colchester, died after being hit by a train near an overpass in Colchester.

The tragic incident happened just days away from the first anniversary of his mother Michelle’s death from cancer.

A petition started by Francis, 17, which calls for safety measures to be put in place at the overpass, has attracted more than 5,000 signatures.

Kayden’s father Vinnie, 49, of Wilson Marriage Road, Colchester, has thanked supporters from across the world for their support.

He said the family wanted to see better lighting installed nearby, as well as taller fencing.

“The side fence is 8ft at the moment but it has got some 6ft fences which are a lot easier to get over. We are talking about getting those replaced.

“It is a three pronged attack, in that we are also looking at mental health awareness in youths and suicide prevention.

“We are already talking about going into schools and explaining that it is OK to seek help.”

Vinnie said the two brothers shared a bunk bed but Francis had been unable to sleep in the room since his brother’s death.

Volunteers stepped up to help redecorate the room.

“Lots of people have donated their time and effort,” said Vinnie.

“They had shared a bedroom and Francis hadn’t been back in there since what happened. Hopefully we can give him a proper new room and make it his.”

The family hope to raise awareness of the struggles and pressures facing youngsters.

“We don’t want any family to have to go through what we’ve gone through. We just want to make good come out of a tragedy.”

• The Gazette is supporting the family’s campaign. To sign the petition, go to www.change.org and search for Francis Cantlow. To support the campaign on social media, use #KaydensWorld.