Heartbroken Bacup family tell of bewilderment after death of student, 19 (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Heartbroken Bacup family tell of bewilderment after death of student, 19

11:30am Tuesday 24th July 2012 in News By Chris Adams

THE PARENTS of a teenager who has died nearly three weeks after being found hanging have spoken of their heartache.

Connor Procter, 19, never regained consciousness after being found near his flat in Burnley Street, Bacup, on July 2 and died on Sunday.

Parents Andrea and Aaron said the Accrington and Rossendale College student was ‘simply the best’ and said they were searching for answers about his death. And they said they have been inundated with messages of condolence from his friends.

Andrea, of Blackthorn Lane, said: “We’re lost for words as to why he was injured in the first place, we still don’t know what happened at all.

“Connor was so cheeky, mischievous is a good way. It’s horrendous that he’s gone.

“He’s the first person you went to if you were down. He’d do anything for a laugh and nothing seemed to faze him.

“He took everyday as it came and there was always laughter when he was around.

“He was such a clown — he has a Mr Bean tattoo on his chest, that’s the sort of guy he was.”

Connor died from pneumonia in Royal Blackburn Hospital at 2.30pm on Sunday. He had been treated in the critical care unit in Royal Preston Hospital until July 10 before being moved closer to home.

The former Thorn Primary School, Bacup, and Whitworth High School pupil had been studying performing arts at Accrington and Rossendale College.

He also worked as a shop assistant at One Stop in King Street, Bacup. He used to play for Bacup Cricket Club as a boy and was involved in pigeon fancying with Stacksteads Flying Club.

He leaves sisters Jessica, 15, and Sasha, 23, and nieces Codie-Lee, three, and Harlee-Jae, two.

His dad Aaron said Connor was like a best friend.

He said: “He was as laid back as they come. Whatever he wanted to do, he did it, just like any typical teenager.

“He loved skateboarding, music and karaoke.”

Connor’s parents have penned a letter to their son. It says: “Well son. You left this world the same way you entered it — in a hospital bed with my arms wrapped around you, telling you how much I love you.

“Thank you for an amazing 19 years. I would not have changed anything about you, you are simply the best.

“Love you always and forever. We won’t ever forget you.

“Have fun, laugh hard and be as mischievous as you want xxx.”

Tributes to the teenager have been paid via social networking website Facebook .

Kirsten Harris wrote: “RIP Connor Procter. You really did know how to make a party come alive. Keep on partying it up there in the clouds! You will be sadly missed.”

Tom Booth said: “I've lost a brother, a best friend and a part of me. Sorry I wasn't there for you bro. You’re one of a kind. I love you kidda and you better get the beers in when we meet again!”

Debbie Abel said: “You will always be in my heart and thoughts forever, sleep well with the angels, love you forever.”

Paul Bethwaite said: “What an awesome and genuine guy and one of the nicest people you could ever meet. Everytime i saw you we had a good little chat, take care up there dude thoughts are with your family R.I.P.”

Deana Tighe added: “You were a lovely and caring boy! I'm going to miss you so much, but at least you are in a better place now! I will never forget you and I love you so much!”

A College spokesperson said: “We were deeply saddened to hear about Connor.”

No funeral arrangements have yet been made.