TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular teenager who was tragically killed after his push bike was in collision with a car on the A483.
14-year-old James Edward Hodgson, better known as Jim, died at Birmingham Children’s Hospital on Friday, January 6.
The day before his BMX was in collision with a Volkswagen Polo on the afternoon of Thursday, January 5, between Four Crosses and Arddleen.
Speaking on behalf of Jim’s family, who live in Arddleen, close friend Cathy Jervis said: “Jim was a very generous, giving and sensitive young man.
“He was popular and made friends easily. He was a member of Four Crosses Young Farmers Club and embraced being a member of the farming community. Jim had a natural affinity with animals.
“This tragedy has left an enormous void in all of our lives. He was a fantastic son, brother and grandson.”
Facebook tributes from friends and family have poured in on a page entitled RIP JIM HODGSON.
James Williams left a message saying: “RIP Jim you were my best mate ever miss u always mate love u.”
Another from Margaret Ratcliffe said: “RIP Jim your Aunty Moo and Uncle Roger will miss you lots, your wonderful grin and your wicked twinkle in your eyes and the love of life will live with us forever.”
The headteacher of Brynllywarch School in Kerry, where Jim was a pupil, has said that he will be greatly missed.
“Jim had been a student at Brynllywarch for just over two years,” said headteacher Gavin Randell.
“He was a very popular student with both pupils and staff. Jim was a very thoughtful young man who was always happy to help other students and had a great sense of humour.
“Jim will be sadly missed by staff and students at the school and at this difficult time our thoughts are with his family.”
Police have said that Jim had been out cycling with a friend when the collision happened, and that investigations into the collision are ongoing.
Sgt Sean Westlake, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “We are looking for anyone who saw these youngsters out cycling in this area around the time of the accident, which was at 4.40pm.
“We are still trying to determine exactly what happened and any information the public can give us to help would be greatly appreciated.”
The A483 was closed for six hours following the incident.
Anyone with information that will help police inquiries is asked to contact Newtown Police Station on 101.