A fundraiser has been launched to support the family of a Scots tourist who died after crashing a motorcycle into the back of a rubbish truck on a Thai island. James Stephenson Young, 36, and a friend were trying to ride a white Honda scooter back from a local bar to their hotel when they collided with the bright yellow garbage truck in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Police and paramedics arrived at the scene and performed CPR on James, from Bonnyrigg, near Edinburgh, but he was pronounced dead and found to have a broken neck and severe head wounds. His friend, Pierre, 30, was taken to the Koh Samui Hospital for treatment.
Following the tragedy a GoFundMe page has been set up to raise the funds to cover the cost to bring James back to Scotland and "give him the send off he deserves".
Launching the fundraiser, his friend Jason Ross said: "Anyone who knew James would agree that he was simply an absolute gem. A young man who would do anything for anyone and just a beautiful soul inside and out. Due to the nature and location of his passing, James's family now face the harsh reality of this tragic event and the financial burden they weren't prepared for.
"Myself, James's family and friends would be forever grateful if you could give whatever you can. Even if you can't donate, please share the page far and wide, which will help bring James home to Scotland for the send-off he truly deserves."
The fundraiser has already coined in almost £5,000 of a £6,000 target as loved ones donated and paid tribute in numbers.
Reuben Chare said: "You'll be greatly missed mate. Some great memories that will never be forgotten."
Daniel Harkness said: "Take care, James, till we meet again."
John Allan said: "Rest in peace big lad! Plenty of memories plenty of laughs! I’ll miss you!"
And Beth Doering added: Love you big guy. How did we end up here."
To donate to the fundraiser, click here.
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