‘Unbelievably kind’ boy, 15, killed in horror motorbike crash on Boxing Day as pals say ‘we were lucky to know him’
A SCHOOLBOY who died in a motorbike crash in south Wales on Boxing Day has been named.
Preston Camps, 15, died in the horror smash in Neath Port Talbot, Wales.
Tributes have flooded in from those who knew the teenager.
Preston worked for window installation company Bayview Aluminium twice a week on work experience and was due to join the team full-time when he finished up in July.
A company spokesperson said: “A few words for Preston. With an Incredibly heavy heart, we send all our love and condolences to Preston’s family and friends at this very painful time.
“We want to let you know a little bit about him in work. Preston is an incredible boy who is flourishing into a superb, unbelievably kind young man.
“We are lucky to spend two days a week with him. The two days he is with us are filled with smiles and happiness.
“We all look forward to a Wednesday and Thursday, when he’s in.
“Preston is a delight to be around and has showed huge maturity for his age this year.
“He is hardworking and has a hunger to learn. Mr Mosford spoke so highly of Preston before he joined us.
“We thought, is it to good to be true? It wasn’t.
“He is such brilliant, kind person. A credit to his family.
“Recently, Preston has shot up, it seems like overnight he’s turned from a boy into a young man, ready to finish year 11.
“Preston regularly talks football, we love hearing about his games on the weekend whether that’s win, lose or draw. He carries the team most weeks.
“Preston understands the process of how to get to where he wants to be.
“Nipping to the van for the 10th time or cleaning all the glass down isn’t ever a chore, it is a stepping stone to the next better task. He is patient and motivated!
“On the last day before Christmas, Preston, a delight to the world, brought every member of the team a Christmas card in. He hand wrote each card…. ‘Merry Christmas and thank you for everything you taught me. Preston x’
“We wish Preston all the love and happiness wherever he is heading next, make sure to stop at the shop on the way to get some chocolate, crisps and pop because you may never know when you may be finishing late.”
Preston was a pupil at St Joseph’s Catholic School, where a book of condolence has been opened on Thursday and Friday.
South Wales Police are appealing for people to come forward who may have witnessed the incident, specifically anyone who has dashcam or CCTV footage.
A statement from the force read: “South Wales Police are investigating a fatal road traffic collision which occurred in Cwmavon Road, Port Talbot, at 1:45pm on Tuesday, December 26.
“The collision involved a motorbike and the rider, 15-year-old Preston Camps, from Port Talbot, has since died as a result of his injuries. His family are being supported by specially trained officers.
“Preston’s school, St Joseph’s Catholic School and Sixth Form Centre, is opening its chapel from 10am-2pm on Thursday and Friday for visitors to light a candle or make an entry into a condolence book.
“Officers are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who may have any dashcam or CCTV footage of the incident or prior to the collision. Please contact us and quote reference 2300437605.”
John Felton, headteacher at St Joseph’s Catholic School and Sixth Form Centre, John Felton, said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of the tragic and unexpected passing of one of our Year 11 pupils, Preston Camps.
“Preston was a wonderful pupil, incredibly polite and smiled throughout his time in St Joseph’s Catholic School and Sixth Form Centre. He will be sorely missed.
“Our school chapel will be open to pupils, parents, staff and friends of our school community at the following times: Thursday, December 28 (10am – 2pm), Friday, December 29 (10am – 2pm). Anyone who visits will be able to light a candle or make an entry into a condolence book.
“School will also be open from 2nd January with the same times as above. We have set up provision for support with the help of the NPT Counselling Service and our local clergy.
“Please keep the family in your prayers. Eternal rest grant unto Preston, O Lord, and let the perpetual light shine upon him.
“May he rest in peace, Amen.”
Baglan Boys and Girls Sports Club (BGC) spoke of their “heartbreak” in a Facebook post.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Preston Camps-Lee,” it read.
“Preston was a former player of Baglan BGC but never a stranger. At just 15 years old, his loss is truly heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”