Mother hit by train at Wimbledon "retrieving phone" (From Wimbledon Guardian)

Mother from Walton hit by train at Wimbledon was "retrieving phone"

6:30pm Monday 9th January 2012 in News By Louise Robertson

Tragedy: Charlene Pickering, pictured with boyfriend Daniel Pickett

A loving mother was hit by a train in front of her boyfriend in an apparent accident at Wimbledon station on Sunday, January 8.

Charlene Pickering, 23, had been to Stamford Bridge to watch Chelsea play Portsmouth with her boyfriend Daniel Pickett and it is thought she was travelling back to her home in Walton when the accident happened.

She was fatally struck by the Waterloo to Exeter service, which passed through Wimbledon at about 7.30pm, and died at the scene.

British Transport Police (BTP) said the death was being treated as non-suspicious.

BTP Chief Inspector Alison Evans said: “We believe at this stage that the woman went on to the tracks to retrieve her mobile phone before being struck by the train.

“This appears to have been a tragic accident and our thoughts remain with the woman’s family at this very difficult and sad time for them.”

A file is currently being prepared for the coroner.

The former Rydens School pupil was the dedicated mother of a four-year-old boy called Toby, and her Facebook page has been flooded with messages of condolences and support for her family.

One touching message read: “Charlene i love you so much, you are always in my heart, i looked up to you and your just such an amazing girl, such a bubbly happy girl and i am going to miss you so much but i have hope and now i know no harm can come to you.... Charlene im your lil sis and i always will be babee.. I love you so much lovee your lil sister kerri-ann xxxx.”

Her other sister Danielle wrote: “R.I.P my darlin sister. Miss u so much. Don't feel reel. I love u so much. X”

Friend Amie O’Hanlon posted; “Rip in darling sleep well , why is it all the good ones are taken my heart goes out to ur family and gorgeous little boy xxx.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040, quoting incident number 372 of 08/01/2012.

Did you know Charlene? Leave a tribute below or email: newsdesk@elmbridgeguardian.co.uk.