An inquest has begun into the tragic death of 17-year-old Tom Doherty, who was described as a 'living legend'.
Tom, who was nicknamed Tomboy, died in a car crash in South Nutfield on 9 October. He was the nephew of Paddy Doherty, star of Big Fat Gypsy Weddings and Big Brother.
Tom was reported to be out driving in his white Citroen Berlingo when it crashed. He was treated at the scene, but was tragically pronounced dead.
According to his grandfather Thomas Doherty, Tom was a much-loved member of the Traveller community as well as 'brilliant amateur boxer'. He had been picked for the Frank Bruno Boxing Academy and won the Amateur Boxing Association finals.
Advert
He told Get Surrey: "Tomboy was a local boy who lived in Green Lane, went to a local school and he was a brilliant amateur boxer.
"He was a good footballer as well. Sports, any activities, he loved it all.
"The family are devastated but we want to show our appreciation to the emergency services who were there. They were just so helpful and they were absolutely incredible to us."
He was the nephew of Paddy Doherty. Credit: PA
A spokesperson from the coroner's office in Woking told the paper: "The Inquest touching upon the death of Mr Doherty was opened and adjourned on October 13, 2017. Mr Doherty resided in the Redhill area. Ongoing enquiries into his death will continue."
Today's opening of the inquest was the first time Tom was formally identified as the person who died, but he had already been named locally by his granddad who paid a touching tribute to him.
Advert
Speaking of his interest in sports, his granddad said: "We had the greatest memories. He was a living soul, a legend. A great boy.
"He was handpicked and invited by Frank Bruno to the frank Bruno Boxing Academy. He was incredible.
"My happiest memories are of watching him growing up. He won seven or eight boxing community championship tournaments across London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex. He won all the Amateur Boxing Association finals he was in.
"He won everything."
His family have announced that his funeral will take place next Thursday and it's expected to be attended by members of the Traveller community from across the world.
His granddad added: "He loved people and friendships and he loved his family.
Advert
"He was a friend to everybody in the English and Irish Traveller community. He was loved by everybody he met.
Source: Get Surrey; Get Surrey
Featured Image Credit: Facebook/PA