THE deputy headteacher of a former Kent schoolboy who died while on a gap year trip in South America has paid tribute to the “very popular and well-liked” young man.
Tom Austin, who was from Sevenoaks, was killed while cycling on a notoriously dangerous road in Bolivia known as the Highway of Death.
The 22-year-old was hit by a Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 as it tried to overtake his tour group, who were cycling along the narrow mountain pass through the Andes.
Local reports said the vehicle went on to roll 300ft down a rocky embankment, killing eight people inside.
Mike Bolton is deputy headteacher at Sevenoaks School, where Tom went to sixth form before heading to Durham University to read geography.
He said Tom was the third student in his year to have been killed tragically abroad.
“Tom was an exceptional student and gave an enormous amount to the school," said Mr Bolton.
"He was an excellent sportsman, representing the school at rugby. He had a real passion for geography and travel.
“We have been shocked and saddened by this terrible accident. He will be missed by a huge number of friends he was very, very popular and well liked by students and staff.”
His travel companions James Marshall, 22, also a former Sevenoaks School pupil, and Daniel Roberts, 23, were also injured in the accident on April 24.
POSTED: 09/05/2008 16:38:36